Computed tomography after Lipiodol chemoembolization in hepatocellular carcinoma

In order to ascertain the patterns of Lipiodol uptake and the diagnostic value of Lipiodol-CT in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), we present a retrospective analysis of CT and histological findings after Lipiodol chemoembolization. After chemoembolization 22 consecutive patients with H HCC wer studied with CT and pathological cor relat ion was available in all cases. Two patterns of Lipiodol uptake were defined: nodular (with complete or incomplete Lipiodol retention) and diffuse pattern. Lipiodol-CT demonstrated all principal tumors and 7 satellite CT lesions in 16 cases of nodular pattern, while 13 satellite lesions were not detected. Significant tumor necrosis (mean necrotic rate >90 %) was detected in 13cases of nodular pattern with complete Lipiodol retention. No significant necrosis was present in nodular pattern with incomplete retention, nor in diffuse pattern. Lipiodol-CT remain, an important diagnostic cool in presurgical evaluation of HCC, although some satellite lesions remain undetected. Nodular pattern correlates well with significant necrosis, but diffuse pattern does not.