Review
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World J Gastroenterol. Jun 21, 2013; 19(23): 3543-3554
Published online Jun 21, 2013. doi: 10.3748/wjg.v19.i23.3543
Evaluation of hepatic cystic lesions
Marten A Lantinga, Tom JG Gevers, Joost PH Drenth
Marten A Lantinga, Tom JG Gevers, Joost PH Drenth, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands
Author contributions: All authors contributed equally to this work.
Correspondence to: Joost PH Drenth, MD, PhD, Professor of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, PO Box 9101, Code 455, 6500 HB Nijmegen, The Netherlands. joostphdrenth@cs.com
Telephone: +31-24-3614760 Fax: +31-24-3540103
Received: January 20, 2013
Revised: March 5, 2013
Accepted: March 22, 2013
Published online: June 21, 2013
Processing time: 151 Days and 16.4 Hours
Core Tip

Core tip: We performed a review of the recent literature, and through combining current consensus and recent advances, we developed an evidence-based diagnostic algorithm to guide clinicians in characterising hepatic cystic lesions. Serodiagnostic tests and microbubble contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) are invaluable in differentiating complicated cysts, echinococcosis and cystadenoma/cystadenocarcinoma when ultrasonography (USG), computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging show ambiguous findings. As a result, serodiagnostic tests and CEUS reduce the need for invasive procedures. USG screening of the liver and both kidneys combined with extensive family history taking remains the cornerstone of diagnostic decision making in polycystic liver disease.