Apparent diffusion coefficient value for a B-cell central nervous system lymphoma in a cat

Area of Science:

• Veterinary Neurology
• Comparative Oncology
• Diagnostic Imaging

Background:

• Central nervous system (CNS) lymphomas are the second most common intracranial tumors in cats.
• Accurate diagnosis is crucial as these tumors are highly infiltrative, precluding radical surgical excision.
• Contrast-enhanced MRI can be challenging in differentiating feline CNS lymphomas from other intracranial pathologies like tumors or strokes.

Observation:

• A 10-year-old mixed-breed cat presented with progressive ataxia and left hemiparesis.
• MRI revealed a homogeneously enhancing extra-axial lesion with associated edema. Diffusion-weighted imaging showed hyperintense margins and hypointense lesion on the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) map.
• Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis, cytology, and genetic analysis confirmed B-cell lymphoma.

Findings:

• This is the first report documenting the diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) features of feline CNS lymphoma.
• The lesion exhibited characteristic DWI signal intensities and an apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) value of 0.57 ± 0.01 × 10^-3 mm²/s.
• These specific imaging characteristics can aid in differentiating lymphoma from other CNS conditions.

Implications:

• The documented DWI features and ADC values offer novel diagnostic criteria for feline CNS lymphoma.
• Improved diagnostic accuracy through advanced imaging techniques like DWI can guide treatment strategies and prognostication in affected cats.
• This study contributes valuable information for veterinary neurologists and radiologists in diagnosing intracranial tumors in felines.