[Magnetic resonance tomography of focal liver lesions in comparison with computed tomography and sonography].

The results of magnetic resonance tomography (MRT) performed in 37 patients with predominantly solitary intrahepatic space-occupying masses are presented. Examinations were carried out with a superconducting magnet operating at a field strength of 0.35 Tesla. The majority of intrahepatic masses exhibited a well distinguishable signal amplification compared to normal hepatic parenchyma when T2 weighted sequences were used. For a further differentiation of the lesion, however, T1 and T2 weighted sequences have to be performed. In all cases diagnostic value of MRT is compared to that of sonography and computed tomography. The assessment of magnetic resonance tomograms of focal hepatic lesions is based on the sequence-depending on the signal behaviour of the mass - especially with regard to morphological criteria. The high soft-tissue contrast of magnetic resonance tomography compensates for the low spatial resolution, thus resulting in a sensitivity of focal lesions comparable to that of sonography and computed tomography. The good visualisation of vessels is an advantage. With the exception of haemangioma, however, MRT does not seem to improve diagnosis of the type of focal hepatic lesions.