Dual-energy CT vs. MRI in the Evaluation of Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Oral Cavity and Oropharynx

Dual-energy CT vs. MRI in the Evaluation of Squamous Cell Carcinomas of the Oral Cavity and Oropharynx

The diagnostic and pre-therapeutic assessment of squamous cell carcinomas requires a neck and chest CT scan and a neck and facial MRI, which is the most effective examination, to establish the TNM stage of the tumor. However, obtaining this complete assessment can delay treatment. Confirmation of the non-inferiority of 40keV dual-energy CT in BOLT compared to MRI would spare the patient an additional MRI examination, speed up the pre-treatment assessment, reduce the loss of opportunity due to delayed treatment, and free up MRI imaging slots, which are still insufficient in the region.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adult patient (≥18 years)
• presenting with oral or oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma proven by histopathological analysis of a biopsy
• having undergone a clinical examination with nasofibroscopy by an ENT surgeon specializing in cancer surgery
• a contrast-enhanced cervicofacial MRI
• and a contrast-enhanced cervicofacial DECT with BOLT maneuver.

Exclusion Criteria:

• A lesion other than oral or oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma
• A labial location
• A contraindication to performing one or both of the imaging examinations.