MRI diagnosis and value of uterine adenomyosis

Objective: To analyze the MRI findings and diagnosis value of uterine adenomyosis. Methods: Clinical and MRI data of 55 cases of uterine adenomyosis confirmed by pathology from 2011 to 2013 were retrospectively analyzed. Results: MRI findings among the 55 cases of uterine adenomyosis are: 34 cases were of diffuse adenomyosis. The typical three-layer structure of Uterine was displayed clearly by sagittal T 2 WI,especially the sagittal view. All cases showed enlargement of uterus with diffuse thickening. It ranges from 12 mm ~ 48 mm and 34mm on an average. 28 cases showed hyperechoic spots lesions on T 1 WI. Compared with T 2 WI,DWI shows more and clearer abnormal signal nodules. There are 21 circumscribed adenomyosis which displayed localized myometrial masses or nodules at vague margin and widening of junction zone by sagittal T 2 WI. Conclusion: The uterine adenomyosis are identified clearly by sagittal T 2 WI. The characteristic visualizations of MRI of uterine adenomyosis are: widening of junction zone,vague margin with muscular layer, and quasi-circular long T 1,T 2 and short T 1 lesions with different shapes. MRI is also a useful technique for demonstrate the types,size, localization and concurrent changes in adenomyosis,which shows important diagnosis value.