Diffusion-weighted MRI for hepatocellular carcinoma screening in chronic liver disease: Direct comparison with ultrasound screening

Abstract

Introduction: Ultrasound is a widely utilized method of screening patients with chronic liver disease for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the sensitivity of ultrasound for small tumours is limited. We have prospectively compared ultrasound screening with diffusion-weighted (DWI) MRI for detecting HCC. Methods: Patients with chronic liver disease referred for ultrasound screening underwent a liver ultrasound and a liver MRI comprising free breathing DWI. Each test was independently read to determine the accuracy of each modality for detecting HCC. Results: One hundred and ninety-two patients were recruited and HCC was diagnosed in six patients (3%); all of whom were detected at ultra..