MRI in thorotrastosis

Clin Imaging. 1995 Oct-Dec;19(4):229-33. doi: 10.1016/0899-7071(94)00019-9.

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) were performed in four patients with thorotrastosis. On CT scan, Thorotrast (thorium oxide) deposition was shown as high-density areas in the liver and spleen and the abdominal lymph nodes. These deposits were not found on MRIs. Splenic volume was significantly small due to atrophy. The contrast-noise ratio in the spleen on T1-weighted images was significantly lower. Thorotrast deposition does not affect MRI appearance; therefore it may be useful for the early detection of malignant tumors as a complication of thorotrastosis.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Chemical and Drug Induced Liver Injury*
  • Contrast Media / adverse effects*
  • Contrast Media / pharmacokinetics
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Liver / pathology
  • Liver Diseases / diagnosis
  • Lymph Nodes / pathology
  • Lymphatic Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Lymphatic Diseases / diagnosis
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Male
  • Spleen / pathology
  • Splenic Diseases / chemically induced*
  • Splenic Diseases / diagnosis
  • Thorium Dioxide / adverse effects*
  • Thorium Dioxide / pharmacokinetics
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed

Substances

  • Contrast Media
  • Thorium Dioxide