CT characteristics of hepatic epithelial angiomyolipoma

Objective To observe CT characteristics of hepatic epithelial angiomyolipoma(HEA).Methods The plain and enhanced CT manifestations of HEA in 7 patients were retrospectively analyzed comparing with pathologic findings of surgical resection.Results Single tumor without capsule was found in all 7 patients.Plain CT showed the tumors were inhomogenous low density,and fat density area(CT value —20 HU) of the tumor was found in 4 cases,while multiple cystic areas were found in 2 cases.After injection of contrast agent,the tumors enhanced unevenly.Enhancemeit patterns was fast in and slow out in 5 cases and delayed enhancement was found in 1 case.The feeding artery of HEA was found in 5 cases in arterial phase.Conclusion Fat density areas,inhomogeneous enhancement in arterial phase,continued or delayed enhancement in venous phase and visible vessels within the fat density areas are characteristic CT findings of HEA.