Magnetic Resonance Imaging versus Computed Tomography in Temporal Bone Carcinoma: Radiological and Pathological Correlation

Objectives:Correlate the findings of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) in temporal bone carcinoma with histopathological findings following lateral temporal bone resection.Methods:In this retrospective review, 11 cases of temporal bone carcinoma over the past 3 years were reviewed at our institution. Preoperative CT and MRI scans were systematically reviewed for tumor involvement in 10 anatomic areas involving and surrounding the temporal bone. These were compared with results found on final histopathology.Results:Among the 11 cases, 30 anatomic areas of tumor involvement identified on CT imaging were also found on MRI and confirmed on final histopathology. Two areas suggestive on tumor involvement on CT and MRI (parotid gland and regional lymph nodes) and 2 areas on MRI alone (mastoid antrum and middle ear) were negative on final histopathology. MRI did not change the preoperative clinical staging in any of the 11 cases, however, examination of the MRI in 1 case s...