Abstract

This essay defnes what constitutes a pheochromocytoma and its detection specifcally by MRI. It includes examples of protocols and types of sequences used by MRI to demonstrate this adrenal tumour. MR has a high sensitivity for detection of adrenal pheochromocytomas of 93-100%, but its sensitivity decreases when used for detection of extra-adrenal, metastatic or recurrent lesions (90%). The specifcity of MRI in excluding pheochromocytomas has been shown to be limited, often even as low as 50%. Despite this, MRI has the potential to be the sole imaging modality needed to diagnosis, monitor treatment and even aid in the removal of a pheochromocytoma from the body. MRI is especially useful as the initial imaging procedure for imaging pheochromocytomas in children, during pregnancy, or in patients with a known allergic reaction to contrast agents. This article also gives a detailed description of how a pheochromocytoma is extracted by way of a laparoscopic procedure.

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