Measuring diagnostic accuracy of imaging parameters in pelvic lipomatosis

To study whether the individual radiological findings can help predict diagnosis of pelvic lipomatosis (PL) or, specifically appreciate its progression.

Data from 32 clinically proven cases of PL and 25 controls were collected. Two reviewers were recruited for a blinded evaluation, image features were recorded in terms of: (1) bladder shape; (2) bladder-rectosigmoid morphological indexes including ratio of superior-inferior to anterior-posterior length of bladder (SI/AP), angle between anterior and posterior wall (AAP), relative length of posterior urethra (rLPU), angle between bladder and seminal vesicle (ABS) and rectosigmoid morphological index (RMI); (3) secondary complications. Results were evaluated by an unpaired t test and ROC analysis.

The sensitivity and specificity were 40.6% and 100% for pear and banana-shaped bladder, 62.5% and 100% for SI/AP, 40.6% and 100% for AAP, 62.5% and 100% for ABS, 78.1% and 72% for rLPU, 59.4% and 96% for RMI, respectively. These radiological findings partially correlated with the severity of disease weighted by hydronephrosis and treatment grade. Image analysis demonstrated high prevalence of glandular cystitis (100%) and hydronephrosis (73.4%).

We conclude that PL is a progressive disease involving multiple pelvic organs with high prevalence of intractable cystitis and hydronephrosis. The imaging characteristics can help predict diagnosis and, specifically appreciate progression.