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Intrasacral myxopapillary ependymoma
L E Ginsberg1, D W Williams, C Stanton
1Department of Radiology, Bowman Gray School of Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina 27157-1088.
Neuroradiology
|January 1, 1994
Abstract:
Intrasacral ependymomas are rare, accounting for only a small fraction of primary sacral tumors. They are typically large at diagnosis, which is preceded by a long history of pain. We present a case discovered during investigation of infertility. MRI features of the myxopapillary subgroup are described.
Insights
Intrasacral ependymomas, rare sacral tumors, often present late with pain. This case highlights diagnosis during infertility investigation, detailing myxopapillary ependymoma MRI features.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Spinal cord tumors
- Sacral tumors
Background:
- Intrasacral ependymomas are rare primary tumors of the sacrum.
- These tumors constitute a small percentage of all sacral neoplasms.
- They are often diagnosed at a large size after a prolonged symptomatic period.
Observation:
- A case of intrasacral ependymoma was incidentally discovered during an infertility workup.
- The patient presented with symptoms that led to the investigation of infertility.
- This presentation is atypical compared to the common history of pain.
Findings:
- The study describes the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of a myxopapillary ependymoma.
- Specific MRI features relevant to the myxopapillary subgroup are detailed.
- The findings aid in the radiological diagnosis of this rare tumor type.
Implications:
- Highlights the importance of considering rare spinal tumors in differential diagnoses, even in atypical presentations like infertility.
- Provides valuable imaging insights for radiologists and neurosurgeons managing sacral ependymomas.
- Emphasizes the need for comprehensive diagnostic approaches for sacral tumors.