Meningeal carcinomatosis in the VX2 rabbit tumor model: detection with Gd-DTPA-enhanced MR imaging
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J A Frank1, M Girton, A J Dwyer
1Diagnostic Radiology Department, Clinical Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892.
Abstract:
Meningeal carcinomatosis developed in 14 of 14 New Zealand White rabbits after infusion of a VX2 tumor cell suspension into the cisterna magna. All died or were killed 7-15 days after inoculation. Within days of the tumor infusion, magnetic resonance (MR) imaging with gadolinium-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) at 0.5 or 1.5 T demonstrated enhancement of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) secondary to disruption of the blood-CSF barrier by plaquelike lesions along the meninges. Eventually, meningeal enhancement was observed along the base of the brain and cervical spine. Quantitative assessment of the contrast enhancement on T1-weighted images revealed an increase in mean signal intensity of 213% +/- 130%. Contrast enhancement was not observed in four control animals who received an infusion of cell culture medium. These results demonstrate in an animal model that contrast material-enhanced MR imaging can be used to detect meningeal carcinomatosis by revealing breakdown of the blood-CSF barrier.
Insights
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with gadolinium contrast can detect meningeal carcinomatosis in rabbits. This technique reveals breakdown of the blood-cerebrospinal fluid barrier caused by tumor spread.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Radiology
- Neuro-oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Meningeal carcinomatosis is the spread of cancer to the meninges.
- Early detection is crucial for effective treatment.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a key diagnostic tool.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of contrast-enhanced MRI in detecting meningeal carcinomatosis.
- To assess the disruption of the blood-cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) barrier.
Main Methods:
- VX2 tumor cells were infused into the cisterna magna of New Zealand White rabbits.
- Contrast-enhanced MRI (0.5 or 1.5 T) using gadolinium-diethylenetriaminepentaacetic acid (DTPA) was performed.
- Signal intensity changes in the CSF were quantitatively assessed.
Main Results:
- All 14 rabbits developed meningeal carcinomatosis.
- MRI demonstrated enhancement of CSF and meninges within days of tumor infusion.
- A significant increase in mean signal intensity (213%) was observed.
- Control animals showed no contrast enhancement.
Conclusions:
- Contrast-enhanced MRI can detect meningeal carcinomatosis in an animal model.
- The technique highlights the breakdown of the blood-CSF barrier.
- This imaging approach shows promise for diagnosing meningeal carcinomatosis.