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MRI of primary meningeal tumours in children
1Department of Radiology, Samsung Medical Center, Sungkyunkwan University School of Medicine, Seoul, South Korea. hkyoon@smc.samsung.co.kr
Abstract:
Childhood meningeal tumours are uncommon and mostly meningiomas. We reviewed the histological and radiological findings in meningeal tumours in six children aged 12 years or less (four benign meningiomas, one malignant meningioma and one haemangiopericytoma). Compared to the adult counterpart, childhood meningiomas showed atypical features: cysts, haemorrhage, aggressiveness and unusual location. MRI features varied according to the site of the tumour, histology, haemorrhage, and presence of intra- or peritumoral cysts. Diagnosis of the extra-axial tumour was relatively easy in two patients with meningiomas, one malignant meningioma and one haemangiopericytoma. MRI findings strongly suggested an intra-axial tumour in two patients with benign meningiomas, because of severe adjacent edema. Awareness of the variable findings of childhood meningiomas and similar tumours may help in differentiation from brain tumours.
Insights
Childhood meningeal tumors, often meningiomas, present atypical features compared to adults. Recognizing these varied radiological and histological findings is crucial for accurate diagnosis and differentiation from other brain tumors.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric neuro-oncology
- Neuroradiology
- Surgical pathology
Background:
- Childhood meningeal tumors are rare, with meningiomas being the most common type.
- Meningiomas in children exhibit distinct histological and radiological characteristics compared to adult cases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the histological and radiological findings of meningeal tumors in children.
- To highlight the atypical features of childhood meningiomas and their diagnostic challenges.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of histological and radiological data.
- Analysis of six pediatric cases (aged 12 or less) including benign meningiomas, malignant meningioma, and haemangiopericytoma.
Main Results:
- Childhood meningiomas displayed atypical features such as cysts, hemorrhage, aggressiveness, and unusual locations.
- MRI findings were variable, influenced by tumor site, histology, hemorrhage, and cyst presence.
- Diagnosis was straightforward in some cases, while MRI suggested intra-axial tumors in others due to significant edema.
Conclusions:
- Childhood meningiomas present with unique features differentiating them from adult counterparts.
- Awareness of these variable findings is essential for accurate diagnosis and differentiation from other pediatric brain tumors.