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Solid pelvic masses caused by endometriosis: MR imaging features
E S Siegelman1, E Outwater, T Wang
1Department of Radiology, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA 19107-5244.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|August 1, 1994
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can identify solid masses in pelvic endometriosis. These findings may help differentiate endometriosis from peritoneal metastases, aiding diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Gynecology
Background:
- Solid fibrotic nodules of endometriosis can mimic peritoneal metastases on imaging.
- Accurate differentiation is crucial for appropriate patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the magnetic resonance (MR) appearance of solid masses associated with pelvic endometriosis.
- To identify imaging features that distinguish endometriosis from peritoneal metastases.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of pelvic MR images from 13 patients with pathologically proven endometriosis.
- Analysis of signal intensity, size, and enhancement patterns of eight detected solid peritoneal masses by two radiologists.
Main Results:
- Eight solid masses (1-5 cm) were identified in the cul-de-sac, bladder, and rectal walls.
- Seven masses showed intermediate T1, low T2 signal intensity, and contrast enhancement on MR imaging.
- Histopathology confirmed fibrosis with endometriosis in surgically sampled masses.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging demonstrates enhancing solid masses in patients with endometriosis.
- Specific MR features of these masses may aid in differentiating endometriosis from peritoneal metastases.