[The signal behavior of parathyroid adenomas in MRT--the contrast ratio of the thyroid and fatty tissue].

A quantitative analysis of signal relationships using T1, proton and T2 weighted spin echo sequences was carried out using 20 parathyroid adenomas demonstrated by MRI. T1 weighted sequences from 15 adenomas were also examined following intravenous injection of Gd-DTPA. No typical signal relationship could be defined. In 4 cases the administration of contrast medium markedly increased the contrast between the adenoma and the thyroid gland. In 12 cases the tumour could be examined histologically following removal. In 2 cases there was oedema of the tumour and corresponding increased intensity of the T2 weighted sequences; in none of the other cases was there any clear correlation between the signals and the histology.