[The differentiation of adrenal gland tumors: an improvement in accuracy by a combination of fat-sensitive, T2-weighted and contrast-enhanced MR sequences].

PURPOSE

To determine the diagnostic value of 3 MR sequences for the diagnosis of adrenal tumors.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Retrospective analysis of 32 adrenal tumors (10 malignant, 15 adenomas, 5 inflammatory, 2 phaeochromocytomas) examined by MRT (1.5 T) using T2 turbo spin echo, chemical shift imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced gradient echo sequences.

RESULTS

Differentiation between malignant and benign adrenal tumours by means of T2-weighted sequences, chemical shift imaging and dynamic contrast-enhanced sequences achieved a sensitivity/specificity of 90%/73%, 100%/68% and 90%86%. Accuracy was 78%, 78% and 87%. By combining the three procedures, sensitivity/specificity/accuracy was improved to 100%/91%/94%.

CONCLUSION

To differentiate adrenal lesions, the following procedures are recommended: demonstration of fat by chemical shift imaging is indicative of an adenoma. In the absence of any lipid content, T2-weighted and dynamic contrast-enhanced sequences can demonstrate inflammatory lesions.