Imaging Spectrum of Pancreatic Neoplasms on Multiphase CT and MRI

Abstract

Background: Pancreatic neoplasms encompass a diverse group of lesions with varying biological behaviour and imaging characteristics. Accurate characterization using multiphase CT and MRI is essential for diagnosis, staging, and management.

Objective: To evaluate the imaging spectrum of pancreatic neoplasms using multiphase CT and MRI and to correlate imaging features with histopathological findings.

Methods: This prospective observational study included 95 patients with suspected pancreatic neoplasms. All patients underwent multiphase contrast-enhanced CT and MRI. Imaging features such as lesion morphology, enhancement pattern, ductal involvement, and vascular invasion were analysed and correlated with histopathology.

Results: The most common neoplasm was pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) (52.6%), followed by neuroendocrine tumors (18.9%), cystic neoplasms (17.9%), and solid pseudopapillary neoplasms (10.5%). Hypoenhancement on arterial phase CT was characteristic of PDAC (92%). MRI demonstrated superior characterization of cystic lesions and ductal communication. Vascular invasion was observed in 48% of malignant lesions.

Conclusion: Multiphase CT and MRI play complementary roles in evaluating pancreatic neoplasms. CT is superior for staging and vascular assessment, whereas MRI provides better tissue characterization, particularly for cystic lesions.

Keywords: Pancreatic neoplasms, diagnosis, staging, management, lesion morphology