Role of diffusion-weighted MR imaging in chest wall masses

Abstract

PurposeTo determine the role of diffusion weighted MR imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) in chest wall masses. Materials and methodsThis study included 62 patients with chest wall masses. They underwent routine MR imaging and diffusion MR weighted imaging on a 1.5T MR unit (Symphony-Siemens). Diffusion MR imaging was done with diffusion factor b value of 0, 500, and 1000s/mm2. The apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map was reconstructed. The signal intensity was visually assessed on ADC maps and ADC value was measured in chest wall lesions. The mean ADC values correlated with histo-pathological results. ResultsAdequate ADC maps were obtained in 62 patients. The mean ADC values of chest wall lesions were 1.76±0.08×10−3mm2/s in inflammatory lesion, 3.21±0.05×10−3mm2/s in the cystic lesions, 1.67±0.03×10−3mm2/s in neurofibroma, 2.12±0.07×10−3 in haemangioma, and 0.89±0.06×10−3mm2/s in malignant tumors. The mean ADC value of the malignant tumor was significantly different from that of benign chest wall tumors (P<0.001). ConclusionDiffusion weighted MR imaging is a new imaging modality for differentiation malignant from benign chest wall masses. In addition, it has a role in characterization of different malignant and benign tumors.