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Expanding Virchow Robin spaces in the midbrain causing hydrocephalus
Cristina E Papayannis1, Patricia Saidon, Carlos A Rugilo
1Department of Neurology, Ramos Mejía Hospital, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|August 15, 2003
Summary
This study details a rare case of cystic lesions in the midbrain causing obstructive hydrocephalus, identified via Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging. These findings highlight the importance of considering mesencephalo-thalamic expanding lacunae in brain imaging differentials.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Neuroimaging
Background:
- Cystic lesions in the midbrain are uncommon and can present with complex neurological symptoms.
- Obstructive hydrocephalus requires accurate diagnosis for timely intervention.
Observation:
- A patient presented with cystic lesions in the midbrain and obstructive hydrocephalus.
- Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging revealed abnormal dilatation of perivascular spaces correlating with the cystic lesions.
Findings:
- The observed MR imaging features are consistent with mesencephalo-thalamic expanding lacunae.
- Previous case reports confirm similar clinical and imaging findings, with some diagnoses verified postmortem.
Implications:
- Mesencephalo-thalamic expanding lacunae represent an extremely rare condition.
- This diagnosis should be considered in the differential for cystic abnormalities within the midbrain and thalamic regions.
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