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Histogram analysis based on contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging in pituitary macroadenomas: relation to
Yanhong Han1, Yan Bai1,2, Xu Chen1
1Department of Radiology, Henan Provincial People's Hospital & the People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.
Quantitative Imaging in Medicine and Surgery
|January 12, 2026
Summary
Histogram analysis of contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging (CE-T1WI) effectively differentiates gonadotroph from non-gonadotroph pituitary macroadenomas. This method also correlates with Ki-67 and P53 expression levels, offering insights into tumor characteristics.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Non-gonadotroph macroadenomas often show increased cavernous sinus invasiveness compared to gonadotroph macroadenomas.
- Conventional MRI cannot reliably distinguish between gonadotroph and non-gonadotroph macroadenomas.
- Pituitary macroadenomas require accurate differentiation for appropriate management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of histogram analysis using contrast-enhanced T1-weighted imaging (CE-T1WI) for differentiating gonadotroph from non-gonadotroph macroadenomas.
- To explore the correlation between histogram parameters and tumor invasiveness and proliferation markers (Ki-67/P53).
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 60 non-gonadotroph and 58 gonadotroph macroadenomas.
- Histogram analysis performed on CE-T1WI and subtraction images (CE-T1WI minus T1WI).
- Statistical comparison of histogram parameters, assessment of invasiveness (Knosp grading), and correlation with Ki-67/P53 expression.
Main Results:
- Significant differences in histogram parameters (Perc.10%, Perc.90%, mean, median, max, min) between the two groups (P<0.001).
- Subtraction-based histogram analysis showed superior discrimination (AUC=0.979 for Perc.10%) compared to CE-T1WI alone (AUC=0.838).
- Combined parameters achieved high diagnostic performance (AUC=0.992); non-gonadotroph macroadenomas were more invasive and had higher Ki-67/P53 expression.
Conclusions:
- Histogram analysis of CE-T1WI and subtraction images can differentiate gonadotroph from non-gonadotroph macroadenomas.
- This imaging technique provides valuable information correlating with tumor aggressiveness and proliferation markers.
