Presence of Color Transition in Biopsy Specimens Predicts Outcome of Liver Lesion Biopsies

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of the presence of tissue transition in liver lesion biopsies to predict a successful outcome, as observed by modified macroscopic on-site evaluation (MOSE). METHODS: This is a retrospective analysis of 264 ultrasound-guided liver lesion biopsies, examining the influence the presence of tissue transition (visible color changes in biopsy specimens as evaluated visually) has on two endpoints (1) material retrieval, (2) attaining a definitive diagnosis) representing successful liver lesion biopsies, compared to previously evaluated variables in this context. Uni- and multivariate analyses were performed using SPSS 21.0. RESULTS: Material retrieval and a definitive diagnosis occurred in 224/264 (84.8%) and 217/264 (82.2%) cases, the latter occurring more often when visual inspection revealed macroscopic tissue transition (92/96 [95.8%]) than when not (124/165 [75.2%]), P < 0.001. Tissue transition in biopsies was more common in secondary (74/162 [45.7%]) than (18/54 [33.3%]) primary liver lesions, though this was not significant (P = 0.112). On multivariate analysis, tissue transition in biopsies was an independent predictor of a definitive diagnosis and material retrieval. CONCLUSION: In liver lesion biopsies, MOSE of color transition in biopsies can indicate success. This is easily incorporated into clinical practice and can help overcome the lack of an on-site pathologist.