Topics in magnetic resonance imaging : TMRI
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Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has proven to be an ideal examination for evaluating a variety of soft tissue lesions in the extracranial head and neck. In this article we will describe the MRI characteristics of a variety of the soft tissue lesions found in the neck. Pathophysiology, clinical presentation, treatment, and prognosis are also discussed.
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The manifestations of infectious disease of the spine are numerous. Viruses commonly affect the spinal cord and meninges, while tuberculosis and various bacterial and fungal organisms may involve the vertebrae, intervertebral disks, epidural and paraspinal regions, the leptomeninges, and, rarely, the cord itself. Magnetic resonance imaging, with its multiplanar capability and superb contrast resolution, is definitely the modality of choice in evaluating the patient with suspected infection of the spinal column or spinal cord and its coverings. The addition of postcontrast images is often helpful in the differential diagnosis.