MR diffusion weighted image in solid head and neck masses in pediatrics

Abstract

ead and neck masses are common in pediatric population and present a diagnostic challenge. They represent a diagnostic dilemma, because of their heterogeneity, including congenital, inflammatory and neoplastic (benign and malignant) lesions. Differentiation of benign from malignant pediatric tumors is essential for treatment planning as well as for prognosis of malignant tumors. The head and neck regions are very complicated from the anatomical aspect as it shows numerous details, spaces and tiny structures making the precise diagnosis and staging of regional tumors a challenging task. Many imaging modalities have been introduced in the assessment of the head and neck lesions as ultrasonography and CT scan each with its advantages and disadvantages, yet MRI has proved higher superiority in these regions particularly not only due to its higher sensitivity in differentiating between the normal and diseased lesions by proper clarification of the soft tissues, but also its ability to perform functional technique. In our thesis, the role of one of these functional capabilities has been highlighted; the DWIs and the calculated ADC value in the differentiation and characterization of different masses in the head and neck regions.