Evaluation of magnetic resonance imaging criteria for Meckel's cave lesion: logistic regression analysis and correlation with surgical findings

ObjectiveOur aim was to investigate the statistical preoperative diagnostic criteria of lesions of Meckel's cave (MC) on MRI.Materials and methodsWe retrospectively reviewed the MR images with MC lesions in 34 patients. The MR signs were compared with histopathologic and surgical findings in all lesions. Odds ratio values and the confidence intervals of the MRI diagnostic criteria were evaluated by univariate logistic regression.ResultsThe following three signs of MC on post-contrast T1WI of MRI have been found to represent the most valuable criterion for determination of MC lesion: (1) contrast enhancement, (2) bulging of lateral wall, and (3) the absence of normal MC, with odds ratios of 362.67 (P<.001), 40.38 (P=.001), and 40.38 (P=.001) individually.ConclusionContrast enhancement on post-contrast T1WI is the most sensitive MR sign for demonstrating the presence of MC lesion.