Magnetic resonance imaging of primary skeletal neoplasms.

The primary role of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of skeletal neoplasms is that of staging. Understanding the staging process and selection of the proper imaging planes and pulse sequences is essential for proper staging. To date, image features are not specific for histologic type. In addition, there are still pitfalls with MR imaging for evaluating recurrent tumor or following therapeutic response to treatment. Dynamic gadolinium studies and spectroscopy may improve the future overall specificity for MR imaging.