Use of magnetic resonance imaging in diagnosing eosinophilic fasciitis. Report of two cases.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of eosinophilic fasciitis (EF), selection of appropriate biopsy site, and followup of treatment.


METHODS
MRI was used to examine 2 patients with EF at the time of their initial clinical presentation and after several months of treatment. T2-weighted axial, T2-weighted axial with fat saturation, and T1-weighted axial post-gadolinium with fat saturation scans at 1.5T were obtained.


RESULTS
MRI demonstrated hyperintensity within the fascia. This defect resolved with treatment and clinical improvement.


CONCLUSIONS
MRI is a useful noninvasive tool for diagnosing EF and for monitoring the effectiveness of therapy.
al-Shaikh
A
A
University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
Freeman
C
C
Avruch
L
L
McKendry
R J
RJ
D000328:Adult; D001706:Biopsy; D004802:Eosinophilia / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D005205:Fascia / Q000473:pathology; D005208:Fasciitis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D005500:Follow-Up Studies; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged