"Double Low-Dose" DECT for HCC Imaging

Comparison of Image Quality Between "Double Low-Dose" Dual Energy Liver CT and Standard Contrast Enhanced Liver CT in Patients at High-risk of HCC: Prospective, Randomized Single Center Study

Hypothesis: double low-dose protocol provide better lesion conspicuity than standard protocol CT in patients at high-risk of HCC.

patients who are scheduled for CECT for HCC diagnosis or surveillance are eligible for this study and allocated to either standard protocol or double-low dose protocol using spectral CT with low radiation dose and low dose of contrast media, within clinically accpetable range.

Inclusion Criteria:

• high risk of HCC (chronic hepatitis B or C, or LC of any cause)
• signed informed consent
• scheduled for contrast enhanced liver CT for HCC surveillance or diagnosis

Exclusion Criteria:

• no risk factor for HCC
• history of iodine hypersensitivity
• renal dysfunction (Estimated GFR < 30mL/min/1.73m2) or on dialysis
• metformin medication within 48 hours
• any other contraindication of CE-CT
• BMI > or = 30