Probable Liver Hemangioma

Hi,
I had a CT scan 2 weeks ago to check my aorta due to family history of aortic dissection. The CT was done with IV contrast. Luckily my aorta is fine, but the CT report says " There is a 1.3 cm lesion within the lateral segment of the left lobe of the liver. This demonstrates peripheral nodular enhancement and likely represents a hemangioma. However, delayed imaging was not performed to confirm this.... Note is made that imaging was performed during the arterial phase which is mildly suboptimal for evaluation of the itnra-abdominal organs."

I am a 32 year old woman who delivered twins 1 year ago, after some fertility treatments. I was also on hormonal birth control for approximately 8 years prior to trying to conceive.

My PCP wants me to have another CT scan to ensure that the spot on my liver is in fact a hemangioma and not cancerous. My question is this: is an MRI or an ultrasound as accurate as a CT scan in determining if the spot on my liver is a hemangioma and not cancerous? Other than cost, is there a reason I should have a CT scan instead of an MRI? I would rather not have the radiation exposure of a CT scan if an MRI will produce adequate data. Furthermore, should I see a specialist instead of my PCP about this?

Thank you!

[Kevin Pho, MD]

The MRI would be the more accurate test, and I would consider this to evaluate the possible hemangioma.  

Most cases, it can be observed, but most physicians would consider an MRI at this point.   That being said, I have not seen the CT study - if the lesion is large enough, it is possible that simply repeating the CT may be enough.

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.
www.kevinmd.com

[twolanes]

Dr. Kevin,
Thank you!

Do you have any advice for how to convince my PCP to order an MRI instead of a CT?

Unfortunately, I think she is ordering the least expensive test to keep the insurance company happy.

[Isis905]

A related discussion, CT scan shows spots on the liver was started.