Multidetector CT and MR imaging of cardiac tumors.

The purpose of this article is to provide a current review of the spectrum of multidetector CT (MDCT) and MRI findings for a variety of cardiac neoplasms. In the diagnosis of cardiac tumors, the use of MDCT and MRI can help differentiate benign from malignant masses. Especially, the use of MDCT is advantageous in providing anatomical information and MRI is useful for tissue characterization of cardiac masses. Knowledge of the characteristic MRI findings of benign cardiac tumors or thrombi can be helpful to avoid unnecessary surgical procedures. Presurgical assessment of malignant cardiac tumors with the use of MDCT and MRI may allow determination of the resectability of tumors and planning for the reconstruction of cardiac chambers.