Intraspinal synovial cysts. Magnetic resonance evaluation

Five intraspinal synovial cysts in four patients were evaluated with noncontrast magnetic resonance imaging and magnetic resonance imaging with the contrast agent gadolinium diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid. Useful findings included demonstration of both solid and cystic components, early enhancement of the solid component and cyst periphery, delayed enhancement of the cyst, persistent enhancement of the solid component and cyst capsule, enhancement of the apophyseal joint, and recognition of a possible connection between the cyst and apophyseal joint. Although computed tomographic findings of synovial cysts are quite characteristic for the diagnosis in most cases, contrast magnetic resonance imaging may provide additional information for a more definitive diagnosis.