Magnetic resonance imaging in aggressive fibromatosis

The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of aggressive fibromatosis in 11 patients (five with recurrent tumour) and its contribution to patient management are described. Tumour signal intensity ranged from being low to isointense with respect to muscle on T1-weighted images while being predominantly of heterogenous increased signal intensity on T2-weighted images. A post-contrast (Gd-DTPA) study demonstrating diffuse tumour enhancement was of value in assessing tumour extent in two patients. CT in six patients and angiography in two patients provided no additional information while tumour relationship to neurovascular structures and extent was better appreciated on MRI. MRI was accurate in predicting resectability in all six patients who had surgery.