The Function of Apparent Diffusion Coefficient and Diffusion-Weighted Imaging in Distinguishing between Different Types of Brain Tumors

Abstract : Introduction: The second most common cause of mortality globally is tumors, and early detection is crucial for improving outcomes. Brain tumors, characterized by abnormal cell growth in the brain, can be either benign or malignant. Although conventional MRI techniques are routinely used for diagnosis, they often lack the sensitivity needed for tumor grading and characterization. By determining the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value for each tumor and contrasting these results with the final histology result, this study seeks to evaluate the function of Diffusion Weighted Imaging (DWI) in differentiating between common brain tumors in patients. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted involving thirty-four patients who underwent MRI examinations, including conventional and DWI, at a diagnostic radiology department between January 2022 and December 2024. The study employed a 1.5-T magnetic resonance scanner, with DWI analyzed using calculated ADC values. Data on demographics, MRI characteristics, and histopathological findings were collected and analyzed using SPSS Version 27. Results: Whole-lesion ADC center values ranged 0.470–2.854 × 10−3 mm2/s higher values in dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor and lower in abscess, AS for ADC border values ranged 0.770–1.672 × 10−3 mm2/s higher values in pilocytic astrocytoma and lower in malignant meningioma. These results demonstrated the value of ADC in brain lesion differential diagnosis. Conclusion: DWI and ADC are excellent supplementary imaging modalities because they are quick, simple, non-invasive, and require no contrast injection. It might be able to distinguish between various brain lesions, facilitating prompt diagnosis and care.