Computed tomography of primary intrahepatic biliary malignancy.

Abstract

Patients (15) with primary intrahepatic biliary malignancy (cholangiocarcinoma in 13, biliary cystadenocarcinoma in 2) were examined by computed tomography (CT). The CT features were classified into 3 types: a well-defined round cystic mass with internal papillary projections, a localized intrahepatic biliary dilatation without a definite mass lesion and miscellaneous low-density masses. Intrahepatic biliary dilatation was noted in all cases of Types A and B, and half of those of Type C; dilatation of extrahepatic bile ducts occurred in 4/4, 1/3 and 0/8, respectively. CT patterns, such as a well-defined round cystic mass with papillary projections or dilatation of intra- and extrahepatic ducts, give important clues leading to a correct diagnosis of primary intrahepatic biliary malignancy.