Diagnostic value of apparent diffusion coefficient for the accurate assessment and differentiation of intracranial meningiomas

摘要

Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) along with the calculation of apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC), is a novel, non-invasive, and reliable technique of choice for accurate assessment and for the treatment planning of different types of brain tumors. It is more advantageous in the distinction and differentiation of benign from malignant meningiomas on the basis of ADC values. To investigate the utility of DW magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and to compare the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) obtained at two b-values for an authentic and preoperative characterization of meningiomas. Twenty-six patients with clinically diagnosed or histologically verified meningioma (18 benign and 8 malignant) underwent imaging including DWI at 1.5?T. DW images were obtained at b?=?1000?s/mm2 and b?=?2000?s/mm2, ADC maps were generated at both the b-values. Signal intensities (SIs) and ADCs for solid tumorous tissues, contralateral normal tissues, and peritumoral edema were calculated and normalized ADC (NADC) ratio were determined for tumorous tissues. SI scores, ADC maps, and ADC values were analyzed visually and quantitatively, and were compared at both the b-values. DW images at b?=?2000?s/mm2 were more conspicuity (either hyperintense or hypointense) with improved contrast. The mean ADC of malignant meningiomas (0.64?±?0.05 and 0.42?±?0.03) was significantly lower (P P 1.5-T DWI using high b-values improved our ability to differentiate benign from malignant meningiomas. DWI may play an important role in the preoperative radiological evaluation and the recognition of these types for proper surgical treatment.