[Comparison of MR and CT in a radiological study of Cushing's syndrome. A report on 16 cases]

In 16 patients with high cortisol plasma levels MRI and CT investigation of adrenal gland region was performed; 13 also had the pituitary region examined. CT and MRI results in Cushing's Syndrome due to adrenal glands etiology (8 cases) are overlapping. The morphological criteria utilized consist in the radiological finding of bilateral adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal mass (adenoma, carcinoma). The great amount of retroperitoneal fat increases the normal contrast with both techniques. In the pituitary Cushing's Syndrome MRI was more sensible than CT as far as it concerns ACTH producing pituitary lesion assessment; this technique may show 5 mm diameter adenomas for their high signal intensity.