LI-RADS: Past, present, and future, from the AJR special series on radiology reporting and data systems

The Liver Imaging Reporting and Data System (LI-RADS) is a comprehensive system for standardizing the terminology, interpretation, reporting, and data collection of liver imaging. Over the past 10 years, LI-RADS has undergone a substantial expansion in scope, building on and refining its initial CT and MRI algorithm for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) diagnosis and developing three new algorithms: ultrasound (US) LI-RADS for HCC screening and surveillance, contrast-enhanced US (CEUS) LI-RADS for HCC diagnosis, and LI-RADS CT/MRI treatment response. As of 2018, LI-RADS and the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) guidance share LR-5 (definitely HCC) criteria for the image-based diagnosis of HCC, and LI-RADS diagnostic criteria and management recommendations were integrated into the AALSD clinical practice guidance for HCC diagnosis, staging, and management. LI-RADS is updated in response to new knowledge, technology, and user feedback every 3–5 years. This article details the origins and growth of LI-RADS, reviews its current state, and articulates its short- and long-term objectives.