Imaging of Skull Base Tumors

This article provides an overview of imaging modalities and findings associated with common skull base tumors including meningiomas and how to use imaging features to guide surveillance and treatment decision making.

Ease of access to cranial imaging has led to a higher number of incidentally diagnosed skull base tumors, which merit careful consideration for management with observation or treatment. The point of origin of the tumor dictates the pattern of anatomic displacement and involvement by the tumor as it grows. Careful study of vascular encroachment on CT angiography, as well as the pattern and extent of bony invasion on CT, abets treatment planning. Quantitative analyses of imaging, such as with radiomics, may further elucidate phenotype-genotype associations in the future.

Combinatorial application of CT and MRI analyses improves the diagnosis of skull base tumors, clarifies their point of origin, and dictates the extent of treatment needed.