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Facial nerve enhancement in MR imaging
AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology
|July 1, 1987
Summary
Gadolinium-enhanced MRI can identify abnormal facial nerves, particularly when masses involve the temporal bone or cerebellopontine angle. This technique aids in diagnosing conditions like facial nerve neurofibromas.
Area of Science:
- Neuroradiology
- Neuro-oncology
Background:
- Facial nerve enhancement after gadolinium administration is not well understood.
- Abnormalities of the facial nerve can be associated with masses in the temporal bone, internal auditory canal, and cerebellopontine angle.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the magnetic resonance (MR) appearance of facial nerves after intravenous gadolinium administration.
- To determine the significance of facial nerve enhancement in patients with and without masses.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of MR imaging in patients with and without masses.
- Assessment of facial nerve enhancement patterns, including the geniculate ganglion.
- Correlation with clinical and surgical findings.
Main Results:
- No facial nerve enhancement was observed in patients without masses.
- Four of 11 patients with masses showed facial nerve enhancement, often associated with geniculate ganglion masses.
- Three of these four patients had neurofibromatosis; one had a surgically confirmed facial nerve neurofibroma.
Conclusions:
- Enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is valuable for identifying abnormal facial nerves.
- Facial nerve enhancement can indicate pathology, such as neurofibromas, in the relevant anatomical regions.