Magnetic resonance imaging of the skull base

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging has made it possible to evaluate the skull base in one primary screening examination. In most cases, MR imaging also serves as the definitive imaging study. In some traumatic or congenital lesions or both, computed tomography (CT) and conventional radiographs may be preferred or may be needed to supplement the MR imaging examination. This article discusses the pathology of the skull base, particularly in the evaluation of suspected neoplasms. Optimal imaging of the skull base requires a minimum of two planes of section, typically with and without gadolinium contrast enhancement.