Diagnostic value of dynamic magnetic resonance imaging for salivary gland diseases: a preliminary study

To determine the diagnostic value of dynamic MR imaging for the differentiation between benign tumours, malignant tumours, and inflammatory lesions in the major salivary glands.

T1- and T2-weighted spin-echo and dynamic gadolinium-enhanced T1-weighted spin-echo imaging sequences were performed in 27 patients (28 salivary gland lesions). The enhancement curve patterns and tumour margins on dynamic MR imaging were analysed.

All pleomorphic adenomas showed a continuous gradual or rapid increase in the enhancement pattern, whereas other benign tumours had a rapid or gradual enhancement-attenuation pattern. Malignant tumours generally showed a gradual enhancement-attenuation pattern. Inflammatory lesions showed a rapid or gradual enhancement-attenuation pattern. A well-defined margin was observed in all 13 (100%) benign tumours and three of six (50%) malignant tumours.

Our study suggests that dynamic curve patterns and tumour margin appearance may help to differentiate between benign tumours, malignant tumours and inflammatory lesions.