43 research outputs found
Extramedullary plasmacytoma in the carotid space: Expanding the differential diagnosis
No full textPlasma cell neoplasms have been classified into various types, with a range of clinical and radiological presentations. Extramedullary plasmacytoma (EMP) is a subset of plasma cell neoplasms which presents as an isolated non-osseous soft tissue mass. Though carotid space neoplasms are commonly encountered, EMP in the carotid space is rare and seldom considered in the initial differential diagnosis of a carotid space mass. These tumors can be treated by surgery or radiotherapy. On the other hand, the commonly encountered tumors in the carotid space are treated surgically. Also, it is mandatory to exclude multiple myeloma in the patients presenting with EMP. Hence, accurate and early diagnosis has therapeutic and prognostic implications. We report a rare case of EMP of the carotid space, describing the imaging features and the differential diagnoses with clues pointing to this rare entity
Multimodality molecular imaging (FDG-PET/CT, US elastography, and DWI-MRI) as complimentary adjunct for enhancing diagnostic confidence in reported intermediate risk category thyroid nodules on bethesda thyroid cytopathology reporting system
No full textThe potential complimentary role of various molecular imaging modalities [fluorodeoxyglucose-positron emission tomography/computed tomography (FDG-PET/CT), ultrasound (US)-elastography, and diffusion weighted imaging-magnetic resonance imaging (DWI-MRI)] in characterizing thyroid nodules, which have been designated as "intermediate risk category" on the Bethesda thyroid cytopathology reporting system (BTCRS), is illustrated in this communication. The clinical cases described (category III thyroid nodules on BTCRS) show the imaging features and the final diagnostic impressions rendered by the interpreting physicians with the modalities that have been independently compared in a tabular format at the end; of particular note is the high negative predictive value of these (specifically FDG-PET/CT), which could aid in enhancing the diagnostic confidence in the reported "intermediate risk category" thyroid nodules, a "gray zone" from the patient management viewpoint
Cystic metastasis versus brain abscess: Role of MR imaging in accurate diagnosis and implications on treatment
No full textIntracranial cystic metastases are difficult to differentiate from non
neoplastic lesions like a cystic abscess on routine magnetic resonance
imaging (MRI) sequences in patients with a known primary cancer.
Diffusion weighted MRI sequences can help in differentiating between
the two. This carries significant implications on the intent and nature
of treatment. We present a case of a forty five-year- old patient of
squamous cell carcinoma of larynx who developed an intracranial cystic
ring enhancing lesion following chemotherapy. Though routine MRI was
equivocal, MR diffusion was highly suggestive of an abscess and this
led to surgical excision which confirmed the diagnosis. We discuss this
case and review the literature regarding the role of newer MRI
sequences and the ramifications on patient treatment
Imaging in oral cancers
No full textOral cavity squamous cell cancers form a significant percentage of the cancers seen in India. While clinical examination allows direct visualization, it cannot evaluate deep extension of disease. Cross-sectional imaging has become the cornerstone in the pretreatment evaluation of these cancers and provides accurate information about the extent and depth of disease that can help decide the appropriate management strategy and indicate prognosis. Early cancers are treated with a single modality, either surgery or radiotherapy while advanced cancers are offered a combination of surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy. Imaging can decide resectability, help plan the precise extent of resection, and indicate whether organ conservation therapy should be offered. Quality of life issues necessitate preservation of form and function and pretreatment imaging helps plan appropriate reconstruction and counsel patients regarding lifestyle changes. Oral cavity has several subsites and the focus of the review is squamous cancers of the gingivobuccal region, oral tongue and retromolar trigone as these are most frequently encountered in the subcontinent. References for this review were identified by searching Medline and PubMed databases. Only articles published in English language literature were selected. This review aims to familiarize the radiologist with the relevant anatomy of the oral cavity, discuss the specific issues that influence prognosis and management at the above subsites, the optimal imaging methods, the role of imaging in accurately staging these cancers and in influencing management. A checklist for reporting will emphasize the information to be conveyed by the radiologist
