Liver lesion

My father is 53 diagnosed with Hep C, 10 years ago has cirossis.  He was going through inferon treatment 5 months, tests showed low viral count.  Last week he had high fever, diagnosed with gall bladder infection and streph infection in blood.  They also found lesion 4cm on his liver that was not there 6 months ago. Ultrasound and CT showed lesion but not on MRI? Is it more likely that it is cancer, benign or cys? Should he get another biopsy done? Why does it not show up on MRI?

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The MRI is a more sensitive test than the ultrasound or CT scan, it may be possible that due to this enhanced detail what was thought to be a lesion, really isn't.  I cannot comment on what the lesion is without reviewing the report - the possibilities should be in the radiologist's impression.

If there is indeed a lesion in the liver, the biopsy would be the more comprehensive test to find out what it is.  There are some cases where the characteristics on the imaging study can suggest diagnoses.

I would discuss these options with your personal physician.

Followup with your personal physician is essential.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin, M.D.
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