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Endometriosis: appearance and detection at MR imaging
M Zawin1, S McCarthy, L Scoutt
1Department of Diagnostic Imaging, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510.
Radiology
|June 1, 1989
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can detect endometriosis lesions, showing varying signal intensities and rims. While not replacing laparoscopy for diagnosis, MR imaging aids in monitoring treatment response once endometriosis is confirmed.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Gynecology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Endometriosis is a condition affecting women, characterized by endometrial tissue outside the uterus.
- Accurate diagnosis and staging are crucial for effective management.
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging offers a non-invasive approach to visualize pelvic abnormalities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of MR imaging in detecting and characterizing endometriotic lesions.
- To compare the diagnostic performance of MR imaging with surgical findings.
- To assess the role of MR imaging in monitoring endometriosis treatment.
Main Methods:
- Thirty-nine MR studies were conducted on 31 women with surgically confirmed endometriosis.
- 88 endometriotic lesions were analyzed for size, signal intensity, and presence of signal-void rims.
- MR findings were compared with surgical data from 19 patients (76 sites).
Main Results:
- MR imaging detected 88 lesions ranging from 0.2 to 7.5 cm.
- Lesion signal intensities varied, mimicking hematomas; hypointense rims were noted in 35 lesions.
- MR imaging demonstrated a sensitivity of 71% and specificity of 82% compared to surgery.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging is valuable for detecting endometriotic lesions and assessing their characteristics.
- While MR imaging cannot replace laparoscopy for initial diagnosis and staging, it can be used for monitoring treatment response in established cases.