Screening and Surveillance of Hepatocellular Carcinoma An Introduction to Ultrasound Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System

Given the high prevalence, increasing incidence, and significant morbidity and mortality related to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), a robust and cost-effective screening and surveillance program is needed. Most societies recommend ultrasound for HCC screening, despite lack of standardization in imaging acquisition, reporting content and language, and follow-up recommendations. The American College of Radiology Ultrasound Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (US LI-RADS) fills this unmet need by providing standardization in the use of ultrasound in at-risk patients. It is anticipated that ultrasound LI-RADS will improve the performance of ultrasound for HCC screening and surveillance and unify management recommendations.