Learning about LI-RADS: liver imaging reporting and data system

Abstract

Patients with liver cirrhosis and chronic hepatitis are at high risk of developing liver cancer. Consequently, these patients frequently undergo imaging studies including ultrasound, dynamic contrast-enhanced tomography, and Magnetic Resonance Imaging with intravenous contrast for early detection of premalignant and malignant lesions. In some cases, difficulties in communication or interpretation of the images between the radiologist and the clinician may lead to a late diagnosis or intervention, or in contrast, to the administration of unnecessary therapy. The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) was developed in an effort to standardize diagnostic imaging criteria and terminology, in order to categorize the lesions based on size and radiological characteristics that indicate a benign or malignant nature, in order for the medical community to understand its relevance and use this system with patients. This article presents the last LI-RADS version which is available at the American College of Radiology webpage.