What are the color ultrasound findings of liver metastases?

Nov 18, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Jiang Chenggang

Introduction

In general, the color ultrasound findings of liver metastases include reduced liver volume, multiple metastatic lesions, unclear boundaries, abnormal blood flow signals, and invasion of hepatic and portal veins. Color Doppler ultrasound can clearly assess the severity of liver metastases, and during the examination, a明显 reduction in liver size may be observed.

Under normal circumstances, the color ultrasound findings of liver metastases may include reduced liver volume, multiple metastatic foci, unclear boundaries, abnormal blood flow signals, and invasion of the hepatic and portal veins. The details are as follows:

1. Reduced Liver Volume

Color ultrasound examination can clearly assess the severity of liver metastases. During the examination, a明显 reduction in liver size may be observed, primarily due to damage to hepatocytes caused by the disease, leading to liver atrophy.

2. Multiple Metastatic Foci

Liver metastases are usually multiple, with several metastatic lesions present within the liver. These lesions may appear on color ultrasound images as nodules of varying sizes and shapes.

3. Unclear Boundaries

The margins of liver metastases on color ultrasound are typically indistinct, with poorly defined borders between the tumor and surrounding normal liver tissue.

4. Abnormal Blood Flow Signals

Color ultrasound may reveal abnormally increased blood flow signals within the metastatic tumors, appearing as unusual colored flow signals, which helps differentiate metastatic lesions from normal liver tissue.

5. Invasion of Hepatic and Portal Veins

If the liver metastases are large in size, they may invade both the hepatic and portal veins. This can lead to obvious thickening and deformation of the vessel walls, along with significant changes in hemodynamics.

If patients experience any discomfort or symptoms, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation at a hospital to avoid delays in diagnosis and treatment.

View All

What does it mean to see multiple round-like areas of low density within the liver?

Multiple round-like areas of low density within the liver refer to the presence of several regions with lower density in the liver, which may be caused by conditions such as hepatic cysts, liver hemangiomas, hydatid disease of the liver, cirrhosis, or liver metastases. If symptoms are severe, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying treatment. In daily life, maintain healthy habits and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods to promote recovery.