The role of diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging in the differential diagnosis of simple and hydatid cysts of the liver

Abstract

Introduction: The present study indicates that simple and hydatid cysts in liver are a common health problem in Turkey. The aim of the study is to differentiate different types of hydatid cysts from simple cysts by using diffusion-weighted images.

Materials and Methods: In total, 37 hydatid cysts and 36 simple cysts in the liver were diagnosed. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of the patients who had both ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging. We measured apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values of all the cysts and then compared the findings.

Results: There was no statistically meaningful difference between the ADC values of simple cysts and type 1 hydatid cysts. However, for the other types of hydatid cysts, it is possible to differentiate hydatid cysts from simple cysts using the ADC values.

Conclusion: Although in our study we cannot differentiate between type I hydatid cysts and simple cysts in the liver, diffusionweighted images are very useful to differentiate different types of hydatid cysts from simple cysts using the ADC values.

Keywords: Hydatid cyst, magnetic resonance, simple cyst, ultrasonography