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[MRI of lymphedema using short-TI-IR (STIR)]
Abstract:
Thirty four cases with lymphedema of the extremities were examined with MRI at 0.5 tesla. On T1-weighted image, the enlarged subcutaneous tissue and the subcutaneous trabecular structures were seen in all cases. Moreover, the trabecular structures in the enlarged subcutaneous tissue showed low signal intensity on T1-weighted image and high signal intensity on T2-weighted image in all cases. Additionally, in 12 of 15 cases examined by Short-TI-IR (STIR) image, the trabecular structures and fluid collections in the subcutaneous tissue were shown more definitely in high signal intensity than by T2-weighted image. We consider MRI using STIR is to be useful in the evaluation of edematous disease.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) effectively visualizes lymphedema of the extremities. Short-TI-IR (STIR) MRI sequences enhance the depiction of subcutaneous fluid collections in edematous disease.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Edematous Diseases
Context:
- Lymphedema of the extremities presents diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate imaging is crucial for evaluating fluid accumulation in subcutaneous tissues.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the utility of 0.5 tesla MRI, including Short-TI-IR (STIR) sequences, in assessing extremity lymphedema.
- To characterize the MRI signal intensities of subcutaneous tissues and trabecular structures in lymphedema.
Summary:
- Thirty-four cases of extremity lymphedema were examined using 0.5 tesla MRI.
- T1-weighted images revealed enlarged subcutaneous tissue and trabecular structures in all cases.
- T2-weighted and STIR images demonstrated high signal intensity in trabecular structures and fluid collections, with STIR offering more definitive visualization.
Impact:
- MRI, particularly with STIR sequences, is a valuable tool for evaluating edematous diseases like lymphedema.
- This imaging approach aids in the precise identification of subcutaneous fluid and structural changes associated with lymphedema.