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Fibroadenomas: MR imaging appearances with radiologic-histopathologic correlation
M G Hochman1, S G Orel, C M Powell
1Department of Radiology, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Boston, MA 02215, USA.
Radiology
|July 1, 1997
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of fibroadenomas shows varied appearances due to histopathologic differences. Lobulation and internal septations may help distinguish benign from malignant masses.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Fibroadenomas are common benign breast tumors.
- Their varied appearance on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging can complicate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To correlate histopathologic findings with the diverse MR imaging characteristics of fibroadenomas.
- To assess the reliability of MR imaging features in differentiating benign from malignant breast lesions.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-three fibroadenomas in 21 patients were evaluated using gadolinium-enhanced MR imaging.
- Imaging features including T2 signal intensity, contrast enhancement, shape, and internal septations were analyzed.
- These imaging findings were correlated with histopathologic examination.
Main Results:
- Fibroadenomas exhibited varied MR appearances: high T2 signal with enhancement (n=11), low T2 signal with enhancement (n=3), and low T2 signal without enhancement (n=9).
- Low T2 signal intensity and lack of enhancement correlated with sclerotic stroma and older patient age.
- Lobulation, oval, or round shapes were observed in 83% of lesions, and internal septations correlated with collagenous bands.
Conclusions:
- Fibroadenomas display significant histopathologic variability, leading to diverse MR imaging appearances.
- Signal intensity and enhancement alone are insufficient to reliably distinguish benign from malignant masses.
- Lobulation and internal septations, reflecting intrinsic growth patterns, may offer more dependable criteria for differentiation.