Magnetic resonance imaging of benign phyllodes tumors of the breast

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has the potential to become a useful adjunct in breast imaging. Contrast-enhanced breast MRI has demonstrated a high sensitivity in the detection of benign and malignant breast disease. Our study aimed to correlate the dynamic contrast-enhanced MRI appearance of benign phyllodes tumor of the breast with histopathologic findings. We retrospectively reviewed the MRI findings in eight patients with benign phyllodes tumor of the breast to describe the image characteristics of this disease. The architectural features and enhancement patterns of this tumor were assessed and compared with other breast diseases. MRIs demonstrated some characteristics for large benign phyllodes tumors (more than 3 cm in size). On T(2)-weighted images, they were imaged as spotted tumors in high to iso signal intensity with cystic components or septations inside. In the time-signal intensity curve for the eight patients in our study who underwent dynamic MRI, we demonstrated two patterns of their curve: rapidly and gradually enhanced. In conclusion, MRI findings in benign phyllodes tumor include dynamic curves of gradually and rapidly enhancing types, and a low and inhomogeneous signal intensity on T(2)-weighted images compared with fibroadenoma. These findings appear to be useful for diagnosis.