Added Value of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient and Diffusion Weighted Imaging in Characterization of Renal Masses

Abstract

Background: The detection of renal masses has been recorded in a marked way over the past years with the increasing use of radiological imaging modalities, majority of renal masses are renal cell carcinoma (RCC).Diffusion Weighted (DW) Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help in differentiating benign from malignant lesions.

Aim of the study: This study aimed to improve characterization of renal masses using magnetic resonance diffusion weighted imaging and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values, and therefore determining accurate surgical planning and improving patient management.

Patients and methods:This was a cross-sectional study was performed in the period from July 2020 to May 2021 in Zagazig university hospitals and was conducted on thirty patients having renal masses previously diagnosed with ultrasound and/or computed tomography, referred to the radiology, urology  and oncology departments. All patients were subjected to full history taking, radiological examination including: Ultrasonography, Contrast enhanced MRI of the upper abdomen and histopathological correlation of surgical specimens.

Results:There was statistically significant difference in mean of ADC in relation to different types of malignant RCC, while it showed no statistically significant difference in relation to different types of benign renal masses.

Conclusion:This work results demonstrate the potential utility of DW imaging for the characterization of renal masses. Most solid tumors showed restricted diffusion because of their higher cellularity, resulting in restriction of water movement and corresponding high signal intensity on DWI.