The “erased charcoal” sign

Excerpt

While the majority of prostate cancers are found in the peripheral zone of the gland, 20%–30% of these tumors will occur in the transition zone (TZ) [1, 2]. T-2-weighted (T-2W) MR images are the mainstay for TZ tumor detection [1]. The diagnosis of tumors in the TZ can be challenging, however, due to gland heterogeneity and the presence of multiple nodules of variable intensity caused by benign prostatic hyperplasia [2]. The “erased charcoal” sign can help radiologists identify TZ tumors and influence the score when applying the PI-RADS^TM (Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System) scoring system. …