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Hypointense renal cell carcinoma: MR imaging with pathologic correlation.
S K Sussman1, M F Glickstein, G A Krzymowski
1Department of Radiology, Hartford Hospital, Conn.
Radiology
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging revealed unusual dark appearances for two renal cell carcinoma tumors. Diffuse iron within the tumors likely caused this hypointense signal on MR images.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) is a common kidney malignancy.
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is a key diagnostic tool for RCC.
- Tumor signal intensity on MR images can provide diagnostic clues.
Observation:
- Two pathologically confirmed RCC cases presented with markedly hypointense tumors.
- This hypointensity was observed on both T1- and T2-weighted spin-echo MR images.
- Normal renal parenchyma appeared hyperintense relative to the tumors.
Findings:
- Pathologic examination revealed diffuse iron deposition within both RCC tumors.
- The presence of iron is hypothesized to cause the observed hypointensity.
- This effect appears independent of the specific spin-echo pulse sequence used.
Implications:
- Iron deposition can significantly alter MR imaging signal characteristics in RCC.
- Understanding this phenomenon may aid in differentiating RCC from other renal masses.
- Further research into iron's role in RCC imaging is warranted.