VALUE OF RARE-MRI SEQUENCES IN THE DIAGNOSIS OF LYMPHANGIOMATOSIS IN CHILDREN

Three patients suffering from extensive cavernous lymphangiomatosis ar e presented here. They were examined by MRI using RARE-MR hydrography (rapid acquisition with relaxation enhancement) as well as conventiona l spin-echo sequences. RARE sequences, which depict each fluid-filled lymphatic space, can be used for screening. RARE-sequences help to sho rten investigation time, particularly in cases involving the skeleton. The imaging strategy can be changed according to the results of this sequence. It may be performed prior to spin-echo sequences and facilit ates follow-up investigations. RARE sequences distinguish between lymp hangiomatosis and hemangiomatosis, or a combination of the two.