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MRI features of gliomatosis cerebri in a dog
Paula Martin-Vaquero1, Ronaldo C da Costa, Kendra E Wolk
1Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA. martin-vaquero.1@osu.edu
Abstract:
The features of gliomatosis cerebri involving the brainstem and cerebellum in a 3-year-old dog are described. In magnetic resonance (MR) images, there was diffuse loss of the cerebellar folia and cerebellar gray and white matter contrast. Multiple illdefined T2-hyperintensities were present in the cerebellar parenchyma. A poorly defined, T2-hyperintense mass effect was present ventral to the pons and rostral medulla. No contrast enhancement was noted. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) was normal. Postmortem examination was consistent with gliomatosis cerebri, based on compatible histopathology and immunohistochemical findings. Although rare, gliomatosis cerebri should be included as a differential for diffuse infiltrative central nervous system (CNS) lesions.
Insights
Gliomatosis cerebri, a rare brain tumor, was diagnosed in a dog
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Neurology
- Neuro-oncology
- Comparative Pathology
Background:
- Gliomatosis cerebri is a rare, diffuse infiltrative glioma.
- Diagnosis in veterinary patients, particularly dogs, is infrequently reported.
Observation:
- A 3-year-old dog presented with neurological deficits.
- Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging revealed diffuse cerebellar changes and a brainstem mass.
- Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis was unremarkable.
Findings:
- Postmortem histopathology and immunohistochemistry confirmed gliomatosis cerebri.
- MR imaging findings included loss of cerebellar folia, altered gray-white matter contrast, and T2-hyperintense lesions.
- A T2-hyperintense mass effect was noted ventral to the pons and rostral medulla without contrast enhancement.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering gliomatosis cerebri in dogs with diffuse central nervous system (CNS) lesions.
- Advanced imaging and histopathology are crucial for diagnosing this rare condition.
- Understanding CNS tumor patterns in animals aids comparative neurology research.
