[MRT of bladder carcinoma: tumor staging and gadolinium contrast behavior]

Abstract

33 patients with tumours of the urinary bladder were studied via MR, both with and without the paramagnetic contrast medium Gd-DTPA. Results were compared with the final pathological classification after TUER and bimanual palpation. The signal intensity ratio of tumour tissue/fat and tumour/muscle were calculated on T1 weighted images and after GD-DTPA and examined for their statistical significance. The increase in signal intensity of the tumours was statistically significant (Wilcoxon test p less than 0.01). There was no advantage for the T2 weighted images compared with Gd-contrasted enhanced T1 weighted images. MRI staging was correct in 28 out of 33 cases (accuracy 84.8%). Because of the relatively short acquisition time of T1 weighted images and the specific tumour enhancement, administration of Gd-DTPA proved to be of help in the staging of the carcinoma of the bladder. Two small tumours and regressive changes in central areas of tumours were recognised after Gd-DTPA.