The value of whole tumor apparent diffusion coefficient histogram parameters in predicting meningiomas progesterone receptor expression.

Abstract

This letter provides a critical assessment of a previous study on the utility of whole tumor apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) histogram characteristics in predicting meningioma progesterone receptor expression. While acknowledging the benefits of employing classical diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) for non-invasive tumor evaluation, it also emphasizes significant drawbacks. Advanced imaging techniques such as diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) were not used in the study, which could have provided a more comprehensive understanding of tumor microstructure and heterogeneity. Furthermore, the inclusion of necrotic and cystic areas in ADC analysis may distort results due to their different diffusion properties. While focusing on first-order ADC histogram characteristics is useful, it ignores the potential insights gained from higher-order features and texture analysis. These limitations indicate that future research should combine improved imaging modalities with thorough analytical methodologies to increase the predictive value of imaging biomarkers for meningioma features and progesterone receptor expression.