[Role of magnetic resonance in the identification, characterization and staging of prostatic cancer. Comparison with transrectal echotomography and computerized tomography].

The results of MR imaging in diagnosing, and characterizing of prostatic malignant tumour, as well as its feasibility in assessing the extension are discussed in this paper. We also compared MR findings with the results obtained from trans-rectal ultrasonography and computed tomography. In particular, we emphasize the important role of MR examination with trans-rectal coil which is, at present, the most sensitive technique for the identification and characterization of prostatic tumours as well as for assessing their extension.