New Study Confirms Non-Contrast Abbreviated MRI Effectively Detects Liver Cancer in High-Risk Patients
Bangkok, Thailand—A recent study published in the British Journal of Radiology reveals that using non-contrast abbreviated MRI (NC-AMRI) can accurately detect hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in high-risk patients. This method is nearly as effective as contrast-enhanced MRI but requires less time and reduces costs.
Study Overview
The study, titled “Non-contrast abbreviated MRI for the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System LR-3 and LR-4 observations in MRI,” focused on 63 cirrhotic patients, with a total of 166 MRI follow-ups over 12 months. NC-AMRI achieved a sensitivity of 91.7% and a specificity of 91.6%.
Significance for Liver Cancer Detection
HCC often develops in cirrhotic patients, and traditional surveillance by ultrasound has many limitations, especially in patients with higher body weight. NC-AMRI offers better detection capabilities without the need for contrast agents, making the process more convenient for patients and reducing costs.
Funding:
The study was funded by the Ratchadapiseksompotch Research Fund of the Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, along with support from the Gastroenterological Association of Thailand and the Graduate Scholarship Programme for ASEAN or Non-ASEAN Countries by Chulalongkorn University.
Title of Original Paper:
Non-contrast abbreviated MRI for the detection of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System LR-3 and LR-4 observations in MRI
Journal:
British Journal of Radiology
DOI link:
Correspondence:
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Roongruedee Chaiteerakij at the Center of Excellence for Innovation and Endoscopy in Gastrointestinal Oncology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok, Thailand
Program:
Master of Sciences in clinical Sciences (International)
Advisor:
Assoc. Prof. Roongruedee Chaiteerakij