STRUMA OVARII - MR FINDINGS

Purpose: The purpose of this study was to determine the MR appearance of struma ovarii correlating with the pathological features. Method: M R findings of two patients with struma ovarii were retrospectively rev iewed and compared with the pathological findings. Results: Both tumor s were complex masses composed of multiple cysts and solid components. The size and signal intensity of multiple cysts varied within the tum or. Hyperintense cystic areas on T1-weighted images were thought to co rrespond pathologically to hemorrhagic cysts and follicles containing viscous proteinaceous colloid. Solid components had as high a signal i ntensity as did uterine endometrium on T2-weighed images and as interm ediate a signal intensity as did uterine muscle layer on T1-weighted i mages. After intravenous administration of gadolinium-DTPA, the solid components showed marked contrast enhancement. There was also ascitic fluid associated with adhesion and peritoneal thickening. Conclusion: The characteristic MR appearance of struma ovarii is thought to be a m ixed mass composed of T2-hyperintense solid components with intense co ntrast enhancement and multiple T1-hyperintense cystic areas suggestiv e of hemorrhagic degeneration and viscous proteinaceous colloid.