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Spinal pilocytic astrocytoma: MR imaging findings at first presentation and following surgery
M Horger1, R Ritz, R Beschorner
1Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, Eberhard-Karls-University, Tübingen, Germany. marius.horger@med.uni-tuebingen.de
Objective:
The objective of this article is to describe MR imaging findings of spinal cord pilocytic astrocytomas at first presentation and following neurosurgery and to discuss briefly some of the most common differential diagnoses.
Conclusion:
MR imaging findings in medullary pilocytic astrocytomas consist generally of focal or diffuse cord-enlarging masses that are irregularly shaped, accompanied by cystic elements and hydromyelia, present different degrees of contrast enhancement, high water diffusivity and a propensity for the thoracic and cervical cord.
Insights
This study details Magnetic Resonance (MR) imaging features of spinal cord pilocytic astrocytomas. Findings include cord enlargement, cystic changes, and specific enhancement patterns, aiding diagnosis and differentiating from other conditions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroradiology
- Neuro-oncology
- Spinal Cord Imaging
Background:
- Pilocytic astrocytomas are common pediatric brain tumors.
- Spinal cord involvement is less frequent but significant.
- Accurate MR imaging is crucial for diagnosis and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize MR imaging findings of spinal cord pilocytic astrocytomas.
- To describe imaging features at initial presentation and post-neurosurgery.
- To discuss differential diagnoses for spinal cord masses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of MR imaging studies.
- Analysis of imaging features including signal intensity, enhancement, and associated findings.
- Correlation with histopathological diagnoses where available.
Main Results:
- Spinal cord pilocytic astrocytomas typically present as focal or diffuse cord-enlarging masses.
- Common findings include irregular shape, cystic components, and hydromyelia.
- Variable contrast enhancement, high water diffusivity, and predilection for thoracic/cervical regions are noted.
Conclusions:
- MR imaging findings are key to diagnosing spinal cord pilocytic astrocytomas.
- Understanding these features aids in differentiating from other intramedullary lesions.
- Post-surgical imaging helps assess treatment response and recurrence.
