Conventional and Advanced MRI Features of Pediatric Intracranial Tumors: Supratentorial Tumors

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. Our objective is to review the imaging characteristics and applications of conventional and advanced neuroimaging techniques of supratentorial intracranial masses in the pediatric population. Specifically, we review astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, primary neuroectodermal tumors, dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumors, gangliogliomas, arachnoid cysts, and choroid plexus and pineal region masses. CONCLUSION. Advanced imaging methods, such as MR spectroscopy, perfusion MRI, functional MRI, diffusion-tensor imaging, and tractography, help develop a more accurate differential diagnosis and aid in planning tumor treatment.

MRI Characteristics of Ependymoblastoma: Results from 22 Centrally Reviewed Cases

“…Surrounding edema seems to be only minimal in both EBL (9% in our study) and other CNS-PNETs. 23 Calcifications are seen in up to 70% of CNS-PNETs, with iso-to hyperattenuating appearance in CT. 22,26 This is relatively consistent with our EBL cases (60% calcifications), though we analyzed only 5 tumors with available CT scans. MR spectroscopy findings in CNS-PNET are characterized by marked elevation of taurine and choline levels with low creatine.…”

Pleomorphic Xanthoastrocytoma of Childhood: MR Imaging and Diffusion MR Imaging Features

“…Primitive neuroectodermal tumors, atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumors, and glioblastomas may present with imaging characteristics similar to those of PXAs. 3,4 The purpose of this retrospective study was to seek MR imaging and diffusion MR imaging features that may be helpful in correctly diagnosing pediatric PXA preoperatively.…”

Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNET) and focal cortical dysplasia: Case report of two pediatric patients with imaging features

“…Scalloping of the skull where it meets the lesion is frequently seen, indicative of the slow growth of these tumors. [4] Lesions appear hypointense on T1 weighted imaging and hyperintense on T2 weighted and FLAIR imaging. Diffusion weighted imaging reveals high apparent diffusion coefficient while a lactate peak is sometimes seen on MRS. [4,5] Pathological hallmarks of DNETs include the presence of glioneuronal elements comprising columns of oligodendrogliomalike cells and floating neurons.…”

“…[4] Lesions appear hypointense on T1 weighted imaging and hyperintense on T2 weighted and FLAIR imaging. Diffusion weighted imaging reveals high apparent diffusion coefficient while a lactate peak is sometimes seen on MRS. [4,5] Pathological hallmarks of DNETs include the presence of glioneuronal elements comprising columns of oligodendrogliomalike cells and floating neurons. They frequently have a nodular structure and involve components resembling other tu-mors such as astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, and oligoastrocytoma.…”