Ewing's sarcoma MRI


 * Assistant Editor(s)-In-Chief: Michael Maddaleni, B.S.

Overview
An MRI provides the most precise definition of local extent of bone tumors including the degree of expansion as well as the involvement of blood vessels and nerves in the tumor. An MRI is a very important tool for surgical planning as well as staging the tumor. They are also important for evaluating the extent of soft tissue masses.

An MRI should be routinely used in the work-up of malignant tumors. MRI will show the full bony and soft tissue extent and relate the tumor to other nearby anatomic structures (e.g. vessels). Gadolinium contrast is not necessary as it does not give additional information over non contrast studies, though some current researchers argue that dynamic, contrast enhanced MRI may help determine the amount of necrosis within the tumor, thus help in determining response to treatment prior to surgery