Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the most common primary liver cancer, often arising in the setting of chronic liver disease, particularly cirrhosis. In abdominal ultrasound, HCC typically appears as a mass with varying echogenicity, from hypoechoic to hyperechoic, and can sometimes exhibit a mosaic pattern or a halo. Early detection via ultrasound surveillance is crucial for improved patient outcomes.
Regular abdominal ultrasound is essential for screening high-risk individuals, allowing for the identification of suspicious liver lesions that may indicate HCC. Further characterization often involves contrast-enhanced ultrasound or other imaging modalities. Understanding the sonographic appearance of HCC is key for accurate medical diagnosis and timely intervention.