T1 measurements in normal and abnormal livers

The authors compared T1 values in patients with normal livers and in patients with a variety of liver lesions. Liver lesions evaluated included primary liver tumors, liver transplants, hemangiomas, chronic active hepatitis, and cholangitis. T1 values were measured using a 0.3-T permanent magnet system and a progressive saturation technique with a 14-point determination. The differences in T1 value (mean +- SD) between normal livers and livers in all other groups were statistically significant. Also, hemangiomas had T1 values significantly higher than primary liver tumors. Although not specific, there was a significant distinction in T1 values between normal and abnormal livers, and a further distinction between hemangiomas and primary liver tumors