The role of computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis and therapy monitoring of primary orbit lymphomas

Methods and materials. 15 patients aged between 43 and 72 years were treated because of primary orbit lymphoma. CT and MRI were applied for diagnosis and follow-up. Both tests were performed before and after intravenous contrast administration. Microscopic examination confirmed 5 cases of B-type lymphoma, 5 cases of MALT lymphoma and a single case of lymphocytic lymphoma. Results. In 12 CT examinations the lesion density was almost identical as the density of extra ocular muscles. 5 lesions indicated postcontrast enhancement. 3 MRI tests were performed. In both Tl- and T2-weighted images lesion signal intensity was similar to extra ocular muscles intensity. All lesions enhanced after i.v. contrast administration. In 9 cases we observed complete response. In 6 cases we detected residual lesions, stable over a 3 to 8 year follow-up. We didn't observe recurrence. Conclusions. The diagnosis and follow-up of primary orbit lymphomas can be performed both through computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). (authors)