Liver cancer

Diagnostic Evaluation

Liver neoplasia can be primary or metastatic, often producing systemic decline and abdominal signs. Imaging evaluates lesion number, vascular involvement, biliary obstruction, and metastatic spread. Ultrasound is commonly first to detect focal or diffuse hepatic changes and assess portal vasculature and ascites. CT provides staging detail and better surgical planning. Radiographs are less sensitive but can show hepatomegaly, effusion, or metastasis. MRI is used for specific characterization. Nuclear imaging can assess multifocal or functional disease in select cases.