The Correlation between Diffusion-Weighted Imaging and Histopathological Evaluation of 356 Prostate Biopsy Sites in Patients with Prostatic Diseases

Purpose . The aim of this study is to investigate the reliability of diffusion MRI for detection of cancer foci by comparing diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) results and pathology results of prostate biopsy sites. Methods . Of the patients who applied with lower urinary tract symptoms, 36 patients who had suspected DRE and/or PSA ≥2.5 ng/mL were included in the study. Patients underwent DWI prior to 10 cores-prostate biopsy. 356 biopsy cores were obtained from the patients. Foci from the patients with prostate cancer were labeled as malignant or benign foci, likewise foci from the patients with benign pathology were grouped as BPH and inflammation foci. Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) of biopsy groups were compared with each other in order to measure the reliability of DWI in detection of PCa foci. Results . When ADC values of adenocarcinoma foci and BPH foci were compared, a statistically significant difference was found ( P < 0.001). When ADC values obtained from adenocarcinoma foci and chronic inflammation foci are compared, the difference between two groups is statistically significant, too ( P < 0.001). Conclusions . Biopsies focused on suspected regions after formation of ADC maps by means of DWI would provide to start definitive treatment immediately as well as being beneficial to prevent morbidity related to repeated prostate biopsies.