Value of MRI in assessment of suprarenal masses

ABSTRACT

Fifteen patients with variable adrenal pathology were studied by magnetic resonance imaging [MRI]. They included six adenomas [three non-functioning and three hyperfunctioning presented as Cushing and Conn syndromes], two pheochromocytomas, four metastases, a case of carcinoma, a case of hyperplasia and a case of histoplasmosis. SE, short TR sequences provided best anatomic images, especially for initial screening of the adrenal area preferably in combination with thin sections. SE, long TR long TE sequences were useful for tissue characterization of adrenal masses and for differentiation of non- hyperfunctioning adenomas from other adrenal masses, including high intensity metastases and pheochromocytomas. Enhancement with Gd- DTPa further increased the specificity of MRI. This study assessed the ability of MRI to demonstrate abnormal adrenal glands with determination of the MRI features of various adrenal mass lesions