Hepatocellular carcinoma - Correlation between vascular endothelial growth factor level and degree of enhancement by multiphase contrast-enhanced computed tomography

RATIONALE AND OBJECTIVES. To determine whether vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a histopathological factor influencing contrast enhancement of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) on computed tomography (CT). METHODS. Twenty-two nodular HCCs underwent multiphase helical CT and surgery. Tumor size, histological grading of differentiation, and type of hepatitis were evaluated. Tumor attenuation was graded as hyperattenuated, isoattenuated, and hypoattenuated. Immunohistochemical staining with anti-VEGF antibody was performed and scored as weak, intermediate, or strong. Spearman's rank correlation test was used. RESULTS. Tumors ranged from 1.0 to 12.0 cm (mean 5.1 cm). The degree of enhancement during the hepatic arterial phase was significantly correlated with VEGF expression. Size was negatively correlated with VEGF expression and the degree of enhancement, but histological grade and type of hepatitis were not correlated with VEGF expression, tumor size, or degree of enhancement. CONCLUSIONS. In HCC, VEGF expression is correlated with the degree of contrast enhancement during arterial-phase CT.