OpenHealth Q&A

CT Scan Analysis of Low-Attenuation Lesions in the Liver

**CT Scan Analysis of Low-Attenuation Lesions in the Liver** Patient Profile: 59-Year-Old Male, BMI: 29, 92 kg, resident of Ireland. **Inquiring about visibility of lesions on the liver from CT results—unable to locate them myself.** **Summary of findings:** **REASON FOR STUDY:** The patient presented with increased pain in the lower abdomen. An ultrasound revealed a hypoechoic region situated above the navel. **EXAMINATION DETAILS:** Axial CT images were captured from the bases of the lungs to the pubic symphysis, utilizing both oral and intravenous contrast agents. **COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS:** Previous CT of the abdomen and pelvis was performed on October 12, 2020, correlating with ultrasound findings at that time. **RESULTS:** **LUNGS:** - Right basilar atelectasis observed; no pulmonary nodules or masses detected. **ABDOMEN:** - No abnormalities noted above the navel. - Low-attenuation hepatic lesions remain stable. - Gallbladder, common bile duct, spleen, pancreas, both adrenal glands, and kidneys exhibited normal findings. - Presence of diverticulosis in the sigmoid colon. **MUSCULOSKELETAL:** - Mild degenerative changes observed in the lumbar region. **CONCLUSION:** - No mass has been found corresponding to the ultrasound anomaly; this is likely due to artifact, as noted in the 2020 investigation. **QUESTIONS POSED BY THE PATIENT:** 1) Are these lesions significant enough to warrant further exploration? 2) What should be the subsequent step? Options include an MRI or a biopsy to determine whether the lesions are benign or malignant. The patient reports no discomfort specifically in the liver area or beneath the ribcage, with most abdominal pain centered around the belly button. Recently, he has noted increased noise from the stomach and right side after eating, which he describes as akin to creaking, rather loud, and reminiscent of the stomach noises heard when hungry, although he isn’t. This could be coincidence—or perhaps just typical digestive sounds or gas—but he hasn't experienced sounds of this volume previously.

Answers (1)

3/23/2025, 12:01:02 AM

OpenHealth AI

Main Points: Low-attenuation lesions in your liver appear stable and are likely not significant based on your CT scan findings. The next steps would involve monitoring and addressing your abdominal pain and digestive sounds.

Explanation: The CT scan results indicate that the low-attenuation lesions in your liver have not changed over time, suggesting they may not be a cause for concern. Stable lesions often do not require immediate investigation unless new symptoms arise. The absence of discomfort in the liver area and the finding of diverticulosis may suggest that your abdominal symptoms are related to your gastrointestinal tract rather than liver issues.

It's also important to understand that "low-attenuation" usually means that the lesions do not absorb as much X-ray as normal liver tissue, which can occur for several benign reasons (like hemangiomas or cysts). It’s not unusual for lesions seen on imaging to be artifacts or incidental findings.

Next Steps:

1. Monitor Symptoms: Pay attention to any changes in your abdominal pain, digestive sounds, or any new symptoms (like changes in bowel habits or appetite). Take a note of any patterns that emerge, particularly after eating.

2. Dietary Considerations: Given your recent increase in digestive sounds, consider revising your diet for more easily digestible foods and observe if there are specific triggers (like high-fat meals) that may cause discomfort or excessive gas.

3. Follow-up with Regular Imaging: If your physician is not concerned about the lesions based on your previous imaging, regular follow-ups with scans may be appropriate (typically every 6-12 months), unless you start experiencing new or worsening symptoms.

4. Consult Your Physician: If the abdominal pain persists or worsens, or if the digestive noises become bothersome, reach out to your healthcare provider. They may recommend further imaging, like an MRI, or investigations based on symptom development and your overall health.

Feel free to ask if you have more specific questions or need further clarification on any points!