Transitional cell tumor of the ovary: computed tomographic and magnetic resonance imaging features with pathological correlation

J Comput Assist Tomogr. 2009 Jan-Feb;33(1):106-12. doi: 10.1097/RCT.0b013e3181638121.

Abstract

Objective: To describe computed tomographic (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging findings of transitional cell tumors, including newly established transitional cell carcinoma, according to tumor type with pathological correlation.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed the CT and MR images of 22 patients with transitional cell tumors of ovary (14 benign Brenner, 2 borderline Brenner, 2 malignant Brenner, and 4 transitional cell carcinomas) for the following factors: size, location, configuration, signal intensity, staging, and accompanying ovarian tumors.

Results: Sixteen tumors were detected on CT or MRI (8 benign, 2 borderline, and 6 malignant tumors), and the mean size of measurable tumors was 8.8 cm. Benign Brenner tumors were homogeneous solid (n = 6) or unilocular cystic (n = 2). Two borderline Brenner tumors were multilocular cystic. Malignant tumors, including malignant Brenner tumors and transitional cell carcinomas, were heterogeneous solid (n = 3) or multilocular cystic (n = 3). The signal intensity of solid components on T2-weighted images was isointense compared with that of muscle in benign and borderline Brenner tumors and hyperintense in malignant tumors.

Conclusions: The CT and MR appearance of transitional cell tumors varied according to tumor type. Benign Brenner tumors were homogeneous solid or unilocular cystic pattern, and malignant tumors were heterogeneous solid or multilocular cystic.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / diagnostic imaging*
  • Carcinoma, Transitional Cell / pathology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Middle Aged
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*