Magnetic resonance tomography of adrenal gland tumors. Detection and differentiation using fast gradient echo sequences and dynamic contrast media studies

The use of fast gradient echo sequences enable reduction of the acquisition times in MR imaging, allowing examinations during suspended respiration. Furthermore, repeated single slices in the same position after administration of a paramagnetic contrast agent provide dynamic evaluation of tissue perfusion. These new diagnostic modalities were applied for imaging normal adrenal glands in 128 cases and for differentiation of 83 adrenal tumors in 74 patients. CT remains the imaging method of choice for the detection of adrenal masses, due to the higher spatial resolution. Fast gradient echo MRI offers the possibility of differentiation between benign and malignant adrenal lesions. The 70% accuracy reached with precontrast scans can be augmented to 90% using dynamic contrast-enhanced studies.