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[The finding of incidental intracranial lesions with magnetic resonance imaging]
C Urbanczyk1, H Desal, M R Ibrahim
1Service de Neurologie, CHU de Nantes.
Introduction:
Incidental findings on brain MRI are not rare since the development of MRI as a diagnostic and clinical research tool.
State Of The Art:
Prevalence of cerebral incidental finding, based on research volunteers participating in studies, is estimated from 1.7 to 4 percent. The most frequently detected lesions are intracranial tumors (meningioma, arachnoid cysts, neuro-epithelial tumor) and vascular malformations.
Perspectives:
A better knowledge of the spontaneous outcome of incidental findings would allow adequate management of these patients.
Conclusion:
Clinicians should be aware of the outcome of incidental findings, to reassure patients or trigger a work-up if necessary.
Insights
Incidental findings on brain MRI, such as tumors and vascular malformations, are common. Understanding their natural course is key for appropriate patient management and clinical decisions.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Context:
- Brain Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a prevalent diagnostic and research tool.
- Incidental findings on brain MRI are not rare, affecting 1.7-4% of research volunteers.
- Common incidental findings include intracranial tumors (e.g., meningioma) and vascular malformations.
Purpose:
- To highlight the significance of incidental findings in brain MRI.
- To emphasize the need for understanding the natural history of these findings.
- To guide clinical management strategies for patients with incidental brain lesions.
Summary:
- Brain MRI frequently reveals incidental findings, with prevalence rates between 1.7% and 4%.
- The most common incidental lesions detected are intracranial tumors and vascular malformations.
- A comprehensive understanding of the spontaneous evolution of these findings is crucial.
Impact:
- Improved patient care through informed clinical decision-making.
- Reduced patient anxiety by providing accurate prognoses.
- Efficient allocation of healthcare resources by differentiating benign from potentially serious findings.
