Role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnosis and Staging of Uterine Cervical Carcinoma

Abstract

MRI examination is a useful modality for staging and evaluation of gynecologic malignancy. The DW-MRI method has been introduced to cancer diagnostics, and has widened the diagnostic capabilities of MRI. Functional information from DWI and DCE-MRI can supplement morphologic information obtained with conventional cross-sectional imaging methods. Additional advantages of DWI include its completely non -invasive nature and its cost effectiveness. DWI does not involve radiation exposure, the oral or intravenous administration of contrast material, and does not elicit patient discomfort. DWI can be easily added to MR study protocols and loses no time to the injection of contrast material. DWI may play an important role in the diagnosis and follow-up of patients with gynecological cancer diseases. Conventional MRI findings in conjunction with DWI and quantitative measurement of the Apparent Diffusion Coefficient (ADC) are effective methods in the diagnosis and staging of cervical cancer. DWI can provide excellent tissue contrast and may be able to demonstrate malignant tumors. ADC values may be valuable in distinguishing between malignant and benign