The Cervix
摘要
The cervix is composed of the endocervix and exocervix. Its zonal anatomy is well visualized on MRI. The definition of the parametrium is controversial, yet its understanding is crucial for the assessment of cervical pathologies. It is commonly simplified as the adipose tissue surrounding the cervix and the upper two-thirds of the vagina, with well-defined limits on MRI. A dedicated MRI protocol is necessary for an optimal evaluation of the cervix, with vaginal opacification recommended whenever possible. Benign pathologies are mostly represented by Nabothian cysts, although other conditions such as polyps or myomas may also occur. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most frequent malignant cervical tumor, primarily affecting patients under 45 years old, often presenting with metrorrhagia. MRI should be performed as soon as biopsy results confirm the diagnosis, as it is the best tool to assess the size and local extent of the lesion, particularly its invasion into the parametrium, and thus help classify the cancer stage according to FIGO. Lymph node involvement is assessed by MRI, PET-CT, or surgery, depending on the case. The main treatment options include surgery or concurrent chemoradiation therapy, sometimes combined. MRI is useful for pre- and posttreatment evaluation or when there is clinical suspicion of recurrence.