Predictors of Ablation Therapy Response in Moderately Differentiated HCC using Radiomics Features from Multi-phasic DCE-MRI

Motivation: Recurrence following thermal ablation for HCC underscores the need for quantitative imaging tools to optimize treatment and accurately assess response. Goal(s): This study aims to identify and evaluate radiomics features from multiphase MRI that can distinguish between responders and non-responders to thermal ablation therapy in moderately differentiated HCC. Approach: Retrospective analysis was conducted on 24 responders and 20 non-responders, with radiomics features extracted from multiphase MRI. Mann-Whitney U tests were used for statistical analysis to identify significant features. Results: Significant differences in radiomics features were identified in the hepatobiliary and pre-contrast phases. No significant differences were observed in the arterial or portal phases. Impact: This study identifies radiomics shape and texture-based features from multiphase MRI that differentiate responders from non-responders to thermal ablation in moderately differentiated HCC. These features offer insights into quantitative biomarkers, emphasizing the role of imaging in optimizing therapy.