[The MRI findings in chordoid glioma of the third ventricle]

To study the features of chordoid glioma of the third ventricle.

The MRI findings of five cases of chordoid glioma of the third ventricle pathologically proved were reviewed and correlated with operative and pathologic reports.

The patients were 3 women and 2 men, 30 - 50 years old in age. The main symptoms were progressive headache, and usually erratic irregular menstruation in women.Five cases of chordoid glioma were located in the third ventricles. Grossly, the 5 tumors size range were 2 - 4 cm in diameter, and were well-circumscribed mass with rounded or irregular morphological features on standard MRI. They were isointense to slightly hypointense relative to normal white matter in T1WI, slightly hyperintense in T2WI and hypointense in DWI on MR. The significant contrast enhancement of this tumour on postcontrast T1WI result from a breakdown of the blood-brain barrier and extravasation of contrast medium, as confirmed by the absence of vascular proliferation on histological examination.4 tumors were enhanced equivalently and 1 tumor had central nonenhancing components representing small cysts, because of its large size (4 cm in diameter).

Chordoid glioma of the third ventricle is rare and the MR appearances possess unique features which are very helpful in diagnosis of chordoid glioma, but to make a definite diagnosis is based on clinical and histopathological features and immunohistochemical staining.