• Fatma Kulali.
• University of Health Sciences, Umraniye Training and Research Hospital, Radiology Department - Istanbul, Turkey.
• Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992). 2023 Jan 1; 69 (1): 566056-60.

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance of diffusion-weighted imaging compared to non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging in the differential diagnosis of acute appendicitis in pregnant patients.MethodsA total of 72 pregnant patients with the suspicion of acute appendicitis who underwent magnetic resonance imaging combined with diffusion-weighted imaging examinations were enrolled in this retrospective study. Magnetic resonance imaging images (non-contrast and diffusion-weighted imaging sequences) were evaluated. Moreover, apparent diffusion coefficient ratios were estimated. The diagnostic performances of magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion-weighted imaging findings were statistically analyzed on the basis of surgical and follow-up results.ResultsOf 72 pregnant patients, 10 (14%) had acute appendicitis on magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion-weighted imaging. Among 10 patients with acute appendicitis, three (3/10) had perforation. diffusion-weighted imaging findings had higher sensitivity (90 versus 60%), negative predictive value (98.41 versus 93.94%), and accuracy (98.61 versus 94.44%) ratios compared to non-contrast magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis of acute appendicitis. There was one false-negative result on diffusion-weighted imaging. Diffusion restriction facilitated the detection of appendicitis. The apparent diffusion coefficient ratios were lower in acute appendicitis than in the normal appendix (0.70±0.19 versus 0.96±0.16) (p<0.05).ConclusionWith a shorter scan time and higher diagnostic accuracy, diffusion-weighted imaging can be useful for the early diagnosis of acute appendicitis and for planning appropriate management.

18 keywords...

hide…