Liver cancer is a serious disease characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the liver. The two main types are:
Liver cancer is the sixth most common cancer globally, and it is more prevalent in men than women. Early detection of liver cancer is crucial as it improves survival rates: when caught early, 5-year survival rates can be as high as 35.3 percent, compared to just 3 percent for late-stage diagnoses.
This stark difference highlights the critical importance of early detection and diagnosis of liver cancer.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become invaluable for detecting and evaluating liver cancer due to its excellent soft tissue contrast, safety, and ability to detect small tumors.
MRI is a powerful, non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of structures inside the body. MRI works by aligning hydrogen atoms in the body with its magnetic field, then uses radiofrequency pulses to disturb this alignment. When the pulses stop, the atoms realign, emitting signals that create detailed images. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRI does not use ionizing radiation, making it a safer option for repeated scans.
MRI plays a vital role in detecting and diagnosing liver cancer. It is highly effective at detecting liver lesions and distinguishing between benign and malignant tumors:
MRI is particularly valuable in specific clinical scenarios. For example, it can characterize indeterminate hepatic masses when CT results are inconclusive. It is also useful in staging examinations for patients being considered for liver metastasectomy and for screening high-risk patients with chronic liver disease.
MRI also excels at distinguishing between benign and malignant tumors. It offers high spatial resolution, allowing for more detailed imaging of liver tissue. This is crucial for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment planning.
MRI offers several key advantages for liver cancer detection.
MRI is a completely non-invasive imaging technique:
MRI provides exceptional image quality and detail of liver structures. It offers higher spatial resolution than other imaging methods and produces detailed cross-sectional images of soft tissue within the body. This allows for better characterization of liver lesions and differentiation between benign and malignant tumors.
MRI has shown promising results in detecting hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at earlier stages detecting the presence of potentially cancerous liver abnormalities, and MRI technology is also being developed as a potential alternative to ultrasound for surveillance in high-risk patients. In some studies, MRI has demonstrated higher accuracy than PET scans for detecting liver metastases.
The procedure for an MRI is very straightforward. However, there are general rules to follow.
Before the MRI: Leave all jewelry and metal objects at home. You can generally eat and drink as usual unless specifically instructed otherwise. If your MRI involves contrast agents or sedation, you may be asked to avoid eating or drinking for a few hours before the procedure.
You'll be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any clothing with metal components, including underwire bras. Inform your doctor about any medical conditions, implants, or claustrophobia. Bring a list of your current medications. Avoid applying deodorants, antiperspirants, perfumes, or body lotions before the exam, as they may contain metals that interfere with the magnetic field.
During the MRI: The procedure typically lasts 30-60 minutes. You'll lie on a table that slides into a large, tube-shaped machine. The machine makes loud noises, so earplugs or headphones may be provided. It's crucial to remain as still as possible during the scan to ensure clear images. You'll be able to communicate with the technologist through an intercom system and will have a call button if you need assistance.
After the MRI: After the scan, you can resume your normal activities unless sedation is used. Your doctor will contact you with the results within a week or so.
For more information on how to prepare for an MRI, you can read this article here.
Both MRI and CT have shown similar overall accuracy in detecting liver cancer, with a per-patient sensitivity of around 85 percent.
Differences:
Differences:
At Ezra, a Full Body Flash MRI will take 30 minutes. This is our fastest scan to detect potential cancers in the head, neck, abdomen, and pelvis.
There are several reasons why a doctor might order an MRI scan of your liver:
However, even if your doctor has no concerns, it’s important to stay proactive about your health. If you are curious about your bodily health, you can take control and schedule an MRI with an independent practitioner - like Ezra.
The cost of an MRI varies depending on location, insurance, the type of MRI, and potential hidden costs. However, at Ezra, a 30-minute Full-Body Flash, which includes imaging of the head, neck, abdomen, and pelvis, will cost $1495. This includes the scan and a detailed follow-up with a medical practitioner to discuss your results.
MRI is crucial for detecting liver cancer due to its ability to produce high-resolution images without ionizing radiation. It excels at identifying liver lesions, distinguishing between benign and malignant tumors, and detecting small tumors, which is critical for early diagnosis and treatment planning. MRI also offers advantages over other imaging techniques, such as higher spatial resolution than CT scans and more detailed visualization compared to ultrasound. Its non-invasive nature and excellent soft tissue contrast make it an invaluable tool for liver cancer detection and monitoring.
Ready to be proactive with your health? Book an Ezra full-body MRI today to detect any issues early and put you on the road to long-term health. Our yearly scan screens for potential cancers early, using AI to enhance the process, making it more efficient and affordable.