The role of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis, lymph node staging and assessment of treatment response of head and neck cancer

• Published in: International journal of oral and maxillofacial surgery 2015-01, Vol.44 (1), p.1-7
• Main Authors: Payne, K.F.B, Haq, J, Brown, J, Connor, S
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Dentistry; Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging; diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging; head and neck cancer; Head and Neck Neoplasms - diagnosis; Head and Neck Neoplasms - pathology; Head and Neck Neoplasms - therapy; Humans; Lymph Node Excision; Lymphatic Metastasis - diagnosis; Lymphatic Metastasis - pathology; MRI; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local - diagnosis; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local - pathology; Neoplasm Recurrence, Local - surgery; Neoplasm Staging; oncology; radiology; Surgery
• ISSN: 0901-5027; 1399-0020
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijom.2014.09.008

Abstract Standard magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography continue to be the imaging modalities of choice in staging and reviewing patients with head and neck cancer. Diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) is an advanced imaging modality that records the molecular diffusion of protons and thus provides an opportunity to further assess tissue character. Interest in DW-MRI of the head and neck continues to grow, especially its application to the assessment and treatment of head and neck cancer. We highlight the potential role of DW-MRI in the delineation, characterization, and lymph node staging of head and neck tumours. Furthermore, we discuss the ability of DW-MRI to provide a real opportunity to differentiate post-treatment tumour recurrence from chemoradiotherapy-induced local tissue changes. The future impact of these findings upon the clinical practice of the head and neck surgeon is discussed.