mpMRI features of mucinous prostate cancer: two case reports

Abstract

Abstract Background Mucinous adenocarcinoma of the prostate (MACP) is one of the rarest variants of prostatic neoplasm, with more aggressive behavior than non-mucinous prostatic cancer. Previous studies suggested that these tumors exhibit different imaging magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features compared with those of non-mucinous adenocarcinoma of the prostate upon which the conventional PIRADS v2.1 is based. To the best of our knowledge, this case series is the first to describe the multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging features of the MACP. Results We presented two cases of biopsy proven mucinous adenocarcinoma of the prostate studied with multiparametric MRI. In both cases, diagnosis was late because of the different MRI features of MACP than those of the more common adenocarcinoma of the prostate. In both mpMRI, MACP appears to be hyperintense on T2WI, there was not a significant decrease in diffusivity in ADC maps and it exhibits early enhancement in DCE-MRI; the septa resulted in hypointense on T2WI compared to the PZ Conclusions According to our experience, the conventional PIRADS v2.1 score is not suitable for mucinous prostate adenocarcinoma. MACP appears to be hyperintense on T2WI, has a lower ADC value, and exhibits early enhancement in DCE-MRI; the septa are usually hypointense on T2WI compared to the PZ. It is imperative for radiologists and urologists to be cognizant of this rare variant of prostate cancer to promptly identify and diagnose it, thereby preventing any diagnostic delays.

Keywords

• Mucinous adenocarcinoma
• Prostate cancer
• MRI
• PIRADS