Ring-shaped lateral ventricular nodules detected with brain MR imaging

Area of Science:

• Neuroradiology
• Neuroimaging
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Background:

• Ring-shaped lateral ventricular nodules (RSLVNs) are uncommon findings on brain MRI.
• Previous reports suggest RSLVNs are rare, necessitating further investigation into their prevalence and characteristics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence and imaging characteristics of RSLVNs detected by postcontrast brain MR imaging.
• To determine the clinical significance of RSLVNs based on their imaging features and follow-up.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of cranial MR images from 1,111 patients who underwent contrast-enhanced brain imaging.
• Assessment of RSLVN location, shape, signal intensity on various MRI sequences (T1WIs, T2WIs, FLAIR, DWIs), and contrast enhancement characteristics.

Main Results:

• Six RSLVNs were identified in 5 patients (0.45% prevalence), located in the frontal horn and body of the lateral ventricles.
• RSLVNs were isointense on T1WIs, T2WIs, and DWI, slightly hyperintense on FLAIR, and showed no contrast enhancement.
• Serial imaging over 8-24 months revealed no interval changes in five nodules.

Conclusions:

• RSLVNs have a higher prevalence (0.45%) than previously reported.
• The imaging characteristics, particularly the absence of contrast enhancement and interval changes, suggest RSLVNs are benign and likely clinically insignificant.
• Accurate differentiation of RSLVNs can prevent unnecessary surgical interventions.