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Cranial MR imaging in neurofibromatosis
J R Bognanno1, M K Edwards, T A Lee
1Department of Radiology, Indiana University Medical Center, Indianapolis 46223.
AJR. American Journal of Roentgenology
|August 1, 1988
Summary
Neurofibromatosis patients often have brain abnormalities. Cranial MRI screening is recommended for early detection of these lesions, even in asymptomatic individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Neurofibromatosis is a genetic disorder that can cause tumors to grow on nerves.
- Intracranial abnormalities are a known complication of neurofibromatosis.
- Early detection and management of these abnormalities are crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the prevalence and types of intracranial abnormalities in patients with neurofibromatosis using cranial MRI.
- To assess the utility of MRI in detecting lesions in both symptomatic and asymptomatic neurofibromatosis patients.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of cranial MRI scans from 53 patients diagnosed with neurofibromatosis.
- Analysis of lesion characteristics, including type, location, and number.
- Correlation of imaging findings with clinical presentation (symptomatic vs. asymptomatic).
Main Results:
- 32 patients had single lesions, 14 had multiple lesions, and 7 had normal scans.
- Intracranial abnormalities were detected in 23 of 30 asymptomatic patients screened.
- Common findings included heterotopias, gliomas (chiasmal, optic nerve, parenchymal), and extraaxial lesions like acoustic neuromas and meningiomas.
Conclusions:
- Cranial MRI is highly effective for detecting intracranial abnormalities in neurofibromatosis patients.
- A significant number of asymptomatic patients harbor detectable lesions.
- Screening MRI is recommended for individuals with neurofibromatosis to identify potential complications early.