Diffusion-weighted MRI in the differential diagnosis of parotid malignancies and pleomorphic adenomas: can the accuracy of dynamic MRI be enhanced?

Diffusion-weighted MRI is effective in differential diagnosis of parotid malignancies. Optimization of preoperative diagnosis of parotid tumors should include preselection identification of Warthin tumors on the basis of dynamic MRI, followed by identification of pleomorphic adenomas based on diffusion-weighted MRI and cytologic examination of the remaining lesions.