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Radiation-induced cavernomas of the brain
Rajan Jain1, Patricia L Robertson, Dheeraj Gandhi
1Department of Radiology, University of Michigan Medical School, Ann Arbor, MI 48202, USA.
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|May 14, 2005
Summary
Childhood radiation exposure is linked to brain cavernomas, appearing years later. This finding supports increased awareness among radiologists for diagnosing these lesions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Brain cavernomas are vascular malformations that can cause seizures and hemorrhages.
- Cerebral radiation therapy is used to treat various brain conditions, including tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To support the literature correlating radiation exposure, especially in childhood, with the development of brain cavernomas.
- To enhance awareness within the radiology community regarding this association.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of patient cases.
- Analysis of patients who received radiation therapy during childhood.
Main Results:
- Five patients developed brain cavernomas in irradiated tissues 3-41 years after childhood radiation therapy.
- Demonstrated a temporal relationship between radiation exposure and cavernoma development.
Conclusions:
- Brain cavernomas are a potential consequence of childhood radiation therapy.
- Consider cavernomas in the differential diagnosis of hemorrhagic lesions in patients with a history of CNS radiation, particularly from childhood.