Noninvasive Diagnosis of Adenomyosis: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

In: Endometriosis and Adenomyosis · 2022 · pp. 471–480 · doi:10.1007/978-3-030-97236-3_34 · W4285264735
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Magnetic resonance imaging is a second-line diagnostic tool for adenomyosis, requiring technical expertise and revealing specific markers like signal spots, cysts, and junctional zone indentations on T2W sequences.

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This chapter reviews the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as a second-line, noninvasive diagnostic modality for adenomyosis when transvaginal ultrasound lacks sufficient diagnostic certainty, emphasizing that high-resolution imaging and low susceptibility to artifacts are key advantages. It describes commonly used MRI diagnostic markers, including high-intensity signal spots, cysts, and indentations at the endometrial-myometrial junction, as well as diffusely demarcated low-intensity areas on T2-weighted sequences, with hemorrhagic components identifiable on T1-weighted sequences. The chapter notes that achieving optimal diagnostic reliability requires meeting technical requirements and having expertise in interpreting adenomyosis MRI features. Relevance to endometriosis: the paper is in a Springer volume titled “Endometriosis and Adenomyosis” and discusses imaging diagnosis within that broader pelvic disease context, though its main focus is specifically adenomyosis MRI criteria.

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Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is recommended to be used as a second-line diagnostic modality for adenomyosis in cases when transvaginal ultrasound does not provide sufficient diagnostic certainty. The strengths of MRI are high resolution and low susceptibility to artifacts, for example, in the presence of large fibroids. However, to achieve optimal results and diagnostic reliability, technical requirements need to be met, and expertise in diagnosing adenomyosis is needed. High-intensity signal spots, cysts, and indentations at the endometrial-myometrial junction and diffusely demarcated low-intensity signal areas in T2-weighted (T2W) sequences are the most commonly found diagnostic markers of adenomyosis in MRI. Hemorrhagic components can be identified in T1W sequences. Access this chapter Tax calculation will be finalised at checkout Purchases are for personal use only Similar content being viewed by others

References

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In: Oral, E. (eds) Endometriosis and Adenomyosis. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-97236-3_34 Download citation DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-97236-3_34 Published: Publisher Name: Springer, Cham Print ISBN: 978-3-030-97235-6 Online ISBN: 978-3-030-97236-3 eBook Packages: MedicineMedicine (R0)

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