Computed tomographic evaluation of subdural and epidural metastases

Area of Science:

• Neuroradiology
• Oncology
• Skull base imaging

Background:

• Calvarial metastases are secondary malignant tumors affecting the skull bone.
• Accurate diagnosis of epidural and subdural lesions is crucial for patient management.

Observation:

• Eight patients with calvarial metastases underwent head computed tomography (CT) scans.
• Tumor extension into epidural and subdural spaces was observed.
• Lesions showed enhancement after contrast administration and had crescentic or biconcave shapes.

Findings:

• Epidural and subdural tumor extensions caused mass effect, displacing brain structures in six patients.
• These extensions mimicked subdural and epidural hematomas.
• Uniform enhancement and associated destructive calvarial changes were key diagnostic features.

Implications:

• Distinguishing metastatic epidural/subdural lesions from hematomas on CT is vital.
• Characteristic imaging findings aid in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.
• Understanding these patterns improves interpretation of skull base pathologies.