Liver hemochromatosis (LHC) is a condition characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the liver, resulting in impairment of its structure and function. LHC can be categorized into two types: hereditary and secondary, sharing similar clinical, pathological, and imaging features. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play crucial roles in diagnosing hemochromatosis. While conventional CT can display the characteristic “white liver” sign, its sensitivity is limited. Dual-energy CT can enhance the detection rate by using the iron quantification analysis. MRI is considered as the preferred technique for evaluating liver iron deposition, particularly gradient echo sequence which sensitively detects even slight iron overload as indicated by the distinctive “black liver” sign. In addition to identifying iron overload, imaging techniques are also valuable for assessing secondary hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cirrhosis, and for identifying the diseases with similar manifestations.

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Liver Hemochromatosis

  • Ye Xu,
  • Yingjun Zhang

摘要

Liver hemochromatosis (LHC) is a condition characterized by excessive iron accumulation in the liver, resulting in impairment of its structure and function. LHC can be categorized into two types: hereditary and secondary, sharing similar clinical, pathological, and imaging features. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) play crucial roles in diagnosing hemochromatosis. While conventional CT can display the characteristic “white liver” sign, its sensitivity is limited. Dual-energy CT can enhance the detection rate by using the iron quantification analysis. MRI is considered as the preferred technique for evaluating liver iron deposition, particularly gradient echo sequence which sensitively detects even slight iron overload as indicated by the distinctive “black liver” sign. In addition to identifying iron overload, imaging techniques are also valuable for assessing secondary hepatitis, hepatocellular carcinoma, and cirrhosis, and for identifying the diseases with similar manifestations.