MR imaging of the ovaries: normal appearance and benign disease

The noninvasive nature of MR imaging is beneficial in evaluations of what are probably benign diseases in young women of reproductive age. Although MR imaging is believed to be safe even during pregnancy, a cautious approach that involves waiting until after 12 weeks' gestation is recommended [1,2]. Disadvantages of MR imaging are its high cost and long scanning time. Its excellent tissue contrast underscores its importance in the evaluation of adnexal masses, however, because it allows specific diagnoses of fat, blood, and fibrous tissue. Even if normal in size, an ovary may present with tiny foci of endometrial implants or dermoid cysts that are only identifiable on MR imaging; however, MR imaging is generally used as a problem-solving modality. When ultrasound results are inconclusive, the use of MR imaging may alter treatment decisions, eliminate the need for surgery, and result in reduced overall costs [3,4].