The incidence of hepatic pseudolesions caused by focal rib compression as seen on multidetector row CT in patients of different hepatic function

Objective: To determine whether the incidence of pseudolesions of the liver caused by rib compression is correlated with liver function. Materials and methods: Multidetector row CT images of 150 consecutive cases were evaluated for the presence of pseudolesions caused by rib compression. Liver function was categorized into two groups mainly using the Child-Pugh classification: Group I - normal liver function and Grade A; Group II - Grades B and C. The number of focal deformities of the liver caused by rib compression was also counted. The incidence of pseudolesions based on number of patients or focal deformities of liver parenchyma by rib compression were compared between the two groups. Results: There were 108 and 42 patients in Groups I and II, respectively. 169 and 41 focal deformities of the liver caused by rib compression were found in Groups I and II, respectively. Patient-based and deformity-based incidences of pseudolesions were 10.7% (16/150) and 7.6% (16/210), respectively. All pseudolesions were seen in patients of Group I. Both patient-based and deformity-based incidences of pseudolesions were significantly higher in Group I as compared with those in Group II. Conclusion: Pseudolesions of the liver caused by focal rib compression may be seen more frequently in patients with preserved liver function than in those with impaired function.