Diagnosis of hepatic angiomyolipoma by CT and MRI

Objective To investigate the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computerized tomography (CT) imaging findings of hepatic angiomyolipoma (AML).Methods Twelve cases of hepatic AML,which were confirmed by pathologists between 2009 and 2011 in our hospital,were retrospectively analyzed.Results There were 3 males and 9 females with an average age of 44.17 years (range,34 to 60 years).There were 14 lesions,8 in left lobe,6 in right lobe.All of 12 cases were confirmed as angiomyolipoma by pathologists.Nine cases were performed with MRI,2 with CT,and 1 with both CT and MRI.The border of lesions were clear in 8 cases.Fat contents were shown on CT and/or MRI in 8 cases.After administrated with contrast medium,the lesion enhancement was still apparent or slightly decreased in 9 lesions from portal phase to delayed phase.The suppression of portal vein and inferior vena cava by tumor were seen in 5 lesions.Abnormal vascular distortion was seen in 6 lesions.None of 12 lesions were found with portal vein thrombosis.Conclusion The diagnosis of hepatic angiomyolipoma should be considered when CT and MRI show good boundaries,intratumoral fat content,delayed lesion enhancement,and vascular distortion. Key words: Hepatic;  Angiomyolipoma;  Computerized tomography;  Magnetic resonance imaging