Objective The CT features of hepatic abscess (HA) were studied to differentiate form hepatocellular carcinoma(HCC).Methods The CT and operative-pathological findings of 78 cases with HA were analyied and compared with the CT appearances of a series proven cases of HCC.Results None of 25 cases had the so-called typical findings such as the marginal"double-target sign"and the even liquidizing necrotic area and containing gas zone within the lesion,53 cases had the central even liquidizing necrotic area,the marginal "Double-target sign",and containing gas zone within the lesion.Most of a typical hepatic abscess were early HA,and the precontrast CT showed nonspecific features.There were characteristic features on contrast CT.They were peripheral multicyst sign,sharp-edged sign spider-like sign,continued enhancement sign.Conclusion The CT features of HA are very valuable for the diagnosis of HA and the differential diagnosis from HCC.