Hepatobiliary Imaging

This research theme focuses on the role of advanced imaging modalities—especially MRI, CT, and ultrasonography—in the noninvasive diagnosis, staging, and treatment planning of HCC. It addresses how imaging features can accurately differentiate HCC from benign and other malignant liver lesions, support transplant eligibility assessment, and influence curative versus palliative treatment decisions. The theme is critical as early and precise imaging diagnosis directly impacts patient survival through timely interventions.

This theme investigates technical improvements in MRI protocols and contrast agent use that improve lesion detectability, tissue characterization, and functional liver assessment. Research includes optimization of hepatobiliary MRI protocols with hepatospecific agents, timing of hepatobiliary phase imaging, motion artifact reduction strategies, and emerging quantitative imaging biomarkers. These advances enable more accurate diagnosis, assessment of liver function, and differentiation of benign versus malignant lesions, greatly influencing clinical decision-making.

This theme focuses on the radiologic differentiation of HCC from other focal liver lesions such as adenomas, hemangiomas, and metastases, as well as the interpretation of imaging appearances after locoregional therapies. It covers the role of radiomics and texture analysis in improving lesion classification, the evaluation of post-treatment vascular and tissue changes on CT and MRI, and the importance of recognizing pitfalls such as hepatic steatosis alterations that mimic lesions. Accurate lesion characterization is crucial for diagnosis, treatment planning, and monitoring therapeutic response.