Sonazoid® contrast-enhanced ultrasonography of hepatocellular carcinoma

Abstract

Much has been learned about imaging diagnosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) from imaging and pathological observations specifically through blood flow in the affected area. In ultrasound imaging, Sonazoid®, the perflubutanemicrobubbles, being covered by the health insurance from 2007, made it possible to observe blood flow in real time and in more detail with a minimally invasive approach. It allows repetitive evaluations in the post vascular phase (Kupffer phase). Because the amount of Kupffer cells decrease in developed HCC, differentiation of malignant lesions is enabled by combining the images in the Kupffer phase with vascular architecture.Ultrasound examination provides higher spatial resolution than CT and MRI, also offers superior temporal resolution by adding contrast to it.The diagnostic capability of ultrasound imaging of HCC and its evaluation in our facility will be discussed.