What it means
A hemangioma is a cluster of small, blood-filled spaces, probably present from birth. It is not cancer and does not turn into cancer. On ultrasound it usually looks like a bright, well-defined spot. On contrast CT or MRI it has a typical pattern: blobs of contrast appear at its edge, then slowly fill it in toward the center. On MRI it is very bright on T2 images.
When it matters
Most hepatic hemangiomas are found by chance and cause no symptoms. When the imaging pattern is typical, usually no treatment or follow-up is needed. If the look is unusual, or you have a history of cancer or liver disease, an MRI with contrast may be done to confirm it. Very large ones, called giant hemangiomas, can occasionally cause pain or fullness and are only rarely treated.
Questions to ask your doctor
- Does it have the typical look of a hemangioma, or is that not certain yet?
- Do I need an MRI or any follow-up scan to confirm it?
- Is it likely to grow, and would that change anything?
Read more: Hepatic Hemangioma: What It Means, Common Causes, and When to Worry
