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Lymphangiomas in children: MR imaging
M J Siegel1, H S Glazer, T E St Amour
1Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology, Washington University School of Medicine, St Louis, MO 63110.
Abstract:
Seventeen lymphangiomas in 15 patients were imaged with magnetic resonance (MR) to define the nature, extent, and anatomic relationships of these lesions. The MR and pathologic findings were then compared to determine the histologic basis for the signal-intensity characteristics of these lesions. The signal intensity of 13 lesions was similar to or slightly less than that of muscle on T1-weighted images and greater than that of fat on T2-weighted images. This appearance correlated with the presence of ectatic lymphatic channels containing clear fluid on histologic section. Four lymphangiomas had high signal intensity, approximately equal to that of fat, on T1-weighted images, reflecting the presence of clotted blood or small cystic spaces with a higher ratio of fat to fluid. Sixteen of 17 lesions had visible septations on MR images. The authors' experience suggests that most lymphangiomas have a characteristic appearance on MR images. The information obtained with MR imaging can help in providing a preoperative diagnosis, in planning surgical resection, and in defining recurrence.
Insights
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging effectively characterizes lymphangiomas, revealing their nature and extent. Characteristic MR signal intensities correlate with specific histologic findings, aiding diagnosis and surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
- Pathology
Background:
- Lymphangiomas are benign vascular tumors.
- Accurate diagnosis and characterization are crucial for effective management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To define the nature, extent, and anatomic relationships of lymphangiomas using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging.
- To correlate MR imaging findings with histopathologic features.
- To establish the diagnostic utility of MR imaging for lymphangiomas.
Main Methods:
- Seventeen lymphangiomas in 15 patients were evaluated using MR imaging.
- MR imaging findings were compared with histopathologic results.
- Signal intensity characteristics on T1- and T2-weighted images were analyzed.
Main Results:
- Most lymphangiomas (13/17) showed signal intensity similar to muscle on T1-weighted and greater than fat on T2-weighted images, correlating with ectatic lymphatic channels and clear fluid.
- Four lymphangiomas exhibited high T1 signal intensity, indicative of clotted blood or fat-fluid levels.
- Visible septations were identified in 16 of 17 lesions on MR images.
Conclusions:
- Lymphangiomas typically demonstrate characteristic signal intensity patterns on MR imaging.
- MR imaging provides valuable information for preoperative diagnosis, surgical planning, and recurrence assessment.
- Correlation of MR findings with histology elucidates the basis of signal characteristics.