Value of Dynamic Enhanced CT in Hepatocarcinoma Rupture

Objective: to assess the value of dynamic enhanced CT in detecting spontaneous hepatocarcinoma rupture as well as to assess CT features of hepatocarcinoma rupture. Materials and Methods: CT findings of hepatocarcinoma rupture in 10 cases proved surgically and pathologically were reviewed. CT characters of variable pathological changes of ruptured hepatocarcinoma were analyzed. The analysis involved the status of liver cirrhosis, ascites, intrahepatic locations of the tumor, extent of extrahepatic protrusion and central necrosis of the tumor. Result:All ruptured tumours were located at the periphery of the liver, 6 cases had a protruding contour. The maximum diameter of tumours ranged from 2 to 16cm. Discontinuity of the hepatic surface was seen in 5 cases, necrosis of core was seen in 7 cas4es. 3cases with non-ruptured masses also showed contrast medium flow over the perihepatic border during the arterial phase. 2 cases showed a haematoma with attenuated rim inside the mass, but rupture was found during surgery. 1 case show detached broken bits drifting in mass ascites. In five cases, CT images during the arterial phase showed a non-enhancing low attenuating lesion with focal discontinuity and peripheral rim enhancement. Conclusion : Enhanced CT can raise the diagnostic accuracy of hepatocarcinoma rupture; it should be taken in those patients suspected of hepatocarcinoma rupture by clinical findings.