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MR imaging features of medulloblastomas
S P Meyers1, S S Kemp, R W Tarr
1Department of Radiology, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, PA 15213.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|April 1, 1992
Summary
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) reveals medulloblastomas typically show variable signal intensity and heterogeneity. These findings are crucial for diagnosing medulloblastomas in the appropriate patient context.
Area of Science:
- Neuroradiology
- Pediatric Oncology
- Neuro-oncology
Background:
- Medulloblastomas are common malignant brain tumors in children.
- Accurate preoperative characterization aids surgical planning and treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively review preoperative MRI findings in medulloblastomas.
- To characterize neoplasms based on signal intensity, size, location, and contrast enhancement.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 25 patients with surgically confirmed medulloblastomas.
- Analysis of unenhanced and Gadopentetate dimeglumine-enhanced MRI scans.
- Characterization of signal intensity, tumor size, location, and enhancement patterns.
Main Results:
- Medulloblastomas exhibited low to intermediate signal on short TR/TE and intermediate to high signal on long TR/TE images.
- Signal heterogeneity was observed in 91% of lesions, attributed to cystic zones, vessels, or calcifications.
- Tumor size averaged 3.6 x 4.0 x 3.5 cm, with the vermis being the most frequent location.
Conclusions:
- Preoperative MRI findings of medulloblastomas show some variability.
- MRI characteristics, including signal intensity and enhancement patterns, are valuable for diagnosis.
- Medulloblastomas should be considered in differential diagnoses with these specific MRI findings.