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Imaging of Hepatocellular Adenomas: From Molecular Biology to MRI

  • Gastrointestinal Imaging (J Olpin, Section Editor)
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Abstract

Purpose of Review

Hepatocellular adenomas are a heterogeneous group of liver tumors that are typically asymptomatic, but can present with hemorrhage or rarely degenerate into hepatocellular carcinoma. These tumors can be classified based on unique genotype–phenotype characteristics, with each subtype demonstrating unique imaging features and clinical courses. Imaging influences the management of hepatocellular adenomas by risk stratifying and identifying complications of these tumors.

Recent Findings

The identification of genetic and molecular bases for different hepatic adenoma subtypes has led to a better understanding of the histologic features of these masses. This ultimately informs the imaging appearance of each subtype, and explains the variation in risk for tumor hemorrhage and malignant degeneration.

Summary

This article provides a review of the genotype-phenotype classification of hepatocellular adenomas, associated imaging findings, and risks for complications that may influence clinical management.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA

    Kristie L. Yang & Douglas Rogers

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Correspondence to Kristie L. Yang.

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Kristie Yang has no relevant financial or non-financial interests to disclose. Douglas Rogers receives royalties from Elsevier, which is unrelated to this work.

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Yang, K.L., Rogers, D. Imaging of Hepatocellular Adenomas: From Molecular Biology to MRI. Curr Radiol Rep 10, 117–127 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40134-022-00400-1

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