[Progress in imaging diagnostics of adrenal neoplasms]

Computed tomography is the modality of choice in imaging of adrenal glands. Density measurements on images without contrast agent are essential for differentiation of adrenal masses. Application of spiral computed tomography for diagnostics of adrenal masses enables sensitive detection of small adrenal tumors and reliable density measurements by elimination of uneven breath-holds effect and minimization of partial volume effect. Tissue harmonic imaging in ultrasonography is a new technique, which enables visualization of abdominal parenchymal organs with higher tissue contrast with less artifacts and is especially useful in ultrasound imaging of difficult-to-image patients with high body weight. Further comparative research will enable to learn the advantages of using that technique in diagnostics of adrenal masses. Magnetic resonance imaging enables very accurate visualization diagnostics of adrenal masses. It is due to its inherent multiplanar imaging capabilities and high tissue contrast of soft tissues which enables very accurate visualization of anatomical structures in adrenal region. Introduction of new techniques of magnetic resonance imaging as chemical shift imaging and dynamic studies with paramagnetic contrast agent enables accurate differentiation of adrenal cortex adenomas from non-adenomas. In case of difficulties in adrenal diagnostics magnetic resonance imaging is often a problem solving examination in regard to other imaging techniques of adrenal region.