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MRI diagnosis of intramedullary metastases from extra-CNS tumors
Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the topography, morphology and contrast enhancement of the intramedullary metastases (IM) from extra-CNS neoplasms. We report the results of a multicenter retrospective study on 18 patients with 26 IM examined with a 0.5T MR imaging system; intravenous injection of Gd-DTPA was performed in all cases. We found that the lesions are most frequently single, oval shaped, and small, with little or no deformation of the spinal cord (14 of 26 IM). They appear isointense on spin-echo T1-weighted images (24 of 26 IM), with a homogeneous and generally nodular high contrast enhancement after Gd-DTPA injection (21 of 26 IM), and present on T2- and proton-density-weighted sequences with a pronounced perilesional, pencil-shaped hyperintensity of the surrounding cord which is more evident in the cranial part of the cord referring to the IM.
Insights
This study characterizes intramedullary metastases (IM) from extra-CNS tumors using MRI. Findings reveal IM are typically single, oval, small lesions with characteristic contrast enhancement and spinal cord signal changes.
Area of Science:
- Neuroradiology
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Intramedullary metastases (IM) are rare but significant findings.
- Accurate characterization of IM is crucial for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the topography, morphology, and contrast enhancement patterns of IM.
- To describe the MRI features of IM originating from extra-CNS neoplasms.
Main Methods:
- Multicenter retrospective study of 18 patients with 26 IM.
- Utilized a 0.5T MR imaging system with intravenous Gd-DTPA contrast administration.
Main Results:
- IM were predominantly single, oval, and small (14/26).
- Lesions appeared isointense on T1-weighted images (24/26) and showed homogeneous, nodular enhancement post-contrast (21/26).
- T2/proton-density-weighted sequences revealed perilesional, pencil-shaped hyperintensity, more pronounced cranially.
Conclusions:
- MRI provides detailed characterization of IM topography and morphology.
- Specific contrast enhancement patterns and perilesional signal changes aid in IM diagnosis.
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