The Role of MR Imaging in the Diagnosis of Malignant Ovarian Germ Cell Tumors

Abstract

Ovarian tumors; are the second most common gynecological tumor and is the fifth commonest tumor in women. Although the final diagnosis of an ovarian tumor is based on the histological examination, it is desirable to preoperatively differentiate benign, BOTs and invasive ovarian cancers in order to decide whether surgery is required, and which type of surgery is appropriate. Thus, it can help avoiding unnecessary surgery and help deciding for conservative surgery for young females wishing to preserve childbearing potential. (Brammer et al, 2011). MRI provides soft tissue characterization based on different signal intensities and contrast uptake in post contrast images. Being a cost effective choice, and in addition to its ability for accurate diagnosis, it can replace computed tomography (CT). (Wenhua D and Van de Vijver M, 2011) New MRI techniques such as DWI and MRS increase the sensirivity and specificity of the modality. DWI depends on the idea of the cell packing causing restricted movement in high cellular lesion, while MRS can differentiate the metabolic component of the mass of interest, thus detect it's histopathological component . So they imply a non invasive technique which can be used especially if contrast intake is avoided as in pregnancy. ( Brammer et al, 2011)