Uterine cervix

Abstract

In the last years, MRI became the most important imaging technique in the evaluation of the uterine cervix due to its capability to delineate exactly the normal anatomical structures of this uterine component and to detect benign or malignant pathologic changes in its context. This is particularly true for cervical cancer. MR images, in fact, permit the detection of the pathologic process and are able to establish a precise tumour staging (FIGO classification), giving all the important information concerning the malignant neoplasm (tumour size, extension to adjacent anatomical structures and involvement of lymph nodes), in order to determine the best therapy option for the patient. Furthermore, MRI has assumed an important role in the follow-up of patients treated for cervical cancer by surgical intervention and/or combined radiochemotherapy, monitoring the response to therapy, depicting treatment complications and detecting tumour recurrence.