[Magnetic resonance imaging features for primary brain lymphoma]

Area of Science:

• Neuroimaging
• Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Primary brain lymphoma (PBL) diagnosis can be challenging.
• Accurate differentiation from other brain lesions is crucial for effective treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and characterize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of primary brain lymphoma.
• To enhance diagnostic accuracy and differential diagnosis of PBL.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of clinical and MRI data from 14 patients diagnosed with primary brain lymphoma.
• Analysis of lesion location, signal intensity on T1-weighted imaging (T1WI), T2-weighted imaging (T2WI), and diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI), enhancement patterns, necrosis, hemorrhage, and peritumoral edema.

Main Results:

• Lesions were predominantly supratentorial and deep-seated, with 9 single and 5 multifocal occurrences (2-6 lesions each).
• Typical MRI findings included isointense signals on T1WI and T2WI, significant enhancement (nodular, mass, or annular), restricted diffusion on DWI, and varying degrees of peritumoral edema.
• Rare instances of central necrosis (2 lesions) and hemorrhage (2 lesions) were observed.

Conclusions:

• MRI demonstrates specific features aiding in the diagnosis of primary brain lymphoma.
• Key characteristics include supratentorial/deep location, multifocal growth, isointensity on T1WI/T2WI, marked enhancement, restricted diffusion on DWI, rare necrosis, and significant mass effect.