Evaluation of Brain Masses Using Magnetic Resonance Diffusion-Weighted Imaging (DWI)

Abstract : Background: Diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) is a valuable MRI technique that provides information about tissue cellularity and helps differentiate various brain lesions. Objective: To evaluate the role of DWI and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) values in the characterization of brain masses. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional hospital-based prospective study was conducted between January 2019 and May 2024 at the MRI Department of Aliaa Specialist Hospital, Khartoum, Sudan. Thirty patients with suspected brain tumors on CT were included. All patients underwent conventional MRI, contrast-enhanced MRI, DWI, and ADC measurement. Histopathological confirmation was obtained in all cases. Results: Brain lesions included gliomas, metastases, meningiomas, schwannomas, abscesses, epidermoid cysts, hemangioblastomas, and medulloblastomas. ADC values varied among lesion types, with lower values generally observed in high-grade and highly cellular tumors. Conclusion: DWI and ADC measurements are valuable tools in differentiating brain masses, particularly in distinguishing benign from malignant lesions.