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Oculomotor nerve schwannoma: MRI appearance
1Radiology Department, The University Hospital, King Abdulaziz University, PO Box 7363, 21462, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. tersam2@yahoo.com
Abstract:
The magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance of oculomotor nerve schwannoma is presented. The lesion appears as a 5-mm mass arising from the cisternal segment of the nerve and is isointense to brain parenchyma on T1- and hypointense on T2-weighted images. Intravenous Gadolinium injection results in intense enhancement of the tumor. Despite its rare incidence, schwannoma should be included in the differential diagnosis of nodular enhancement of the oculomotor nerve.
Insights
Oculomotor nerve schwannoma, a rare tumor, presents as a small mass on MRI. This imaging study details its characteristic appearance, aiding in diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuroimaging
- Neurosurgery
- Oncology
Background:
- Schwannomas are benign nerve sheath tumors.
- Oculomotor nerve schwannomas are rare, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 5-mm mass was identified in the cisternal segment of the oculomotor nerve.
- The lesion exhibited specific signal intensities on T1- and T2-weighted MRI sequences.
Findings:
- The schwannoma was isointense on T1-weighted and hypointense on T2-weighted MRI.
- Intense tumor enhancement was observed after Gadolinium contrast administration.
Implications:
- Recognizing these MRI features is crucial for diagnosing oculomotor nerve schwannoma.
- Schwannoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of oculomotor nerve lesions.
