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MR of giant arachnoid granulation, a normal variant presenting as a mass within the dural venous sinus
1Department of Radiology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH 03756, USA.
Abstract:
We report three cases of masses within the cerebral dural venous sinuses shown with either MR or angiography. The dural venous sinuses of 10 patients without known venous disease were examined at autopsy. In two patients, three giant arachnoid granulations were identified. On the basis of the literature and our limited autopsy series, we suggest that these lesions identified at imaging are giant arachnoid granulations, normal variants of no known clinical significance.
Insights
Three cases of masses in cerebral dural venous sinuses were identified. These lesions are likely giant arachnoid granulations, which are normal variants with no clinical significance.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Pathology
Background:
- Cerebral dural venous sinuses are critical for venous drainage from the brain.
- Imaging may reveal masses within these sinuses, requiring differential diagnosis.
Observation:
- Three cases presented with masses in cerebral dural venous sinuses on MR or angiography.
- Autopsy examination of 10 patients revealed three giant arachnoid granulations in two individuals.
Findings:
- Imaging findings suggestive of sinus masses were consistent with giant arachnoid granulations.
- These lesions represent normal anatomical variants.
Implications:
- Giant arachnoid granulations should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dural venous sinus masses.
- Recognition of these normal variants can prevent unnecessary clinical concern or intervention.