Diagnostic Imaging of Brain Disease

A special issue of Diagnostics (ISSN 2075-4418). This special issue belongs to the section "Medical Imaging and Theranostics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (30 June 2024) | Viewed by 7784

Special Issue Editor


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Guest Editor
Department of Imaging, Radiation Therapy and Hematology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168 Rome, Italy
Interests: MRI; CT; neuroradiology; neoplasms and tumor-like lesions of the sellar region
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Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

The sellar region represents a complex anatomical area, composed of multiple structures of different embryological derivation, including the skull base and the pituitary gland, along with vascular, nervous and meningeal structures.

The aim of this Special Issue on Diagnostic Imaging of Brain Disease is to provide an overview of the common neoplasms and tumor-like conditions of the sellar region, including both those originating from the pituitary gland and those originating from the surrounding structures which secondarily invade the sellar, with an emphasis on the clinical, radiologic and pathologic findings.

Authors are invited to submit original research and reviews about the anatomy of this region, skull base and pituitary tumors, infections, and cystic or vascular lesions, focusing both on the currently used imaging modalities and on innovative MRI radiomic data, relevant for diagnosis, follow up and outcome predictions.

Topics include the following areas: clinical, neuroimaging and neurosurgical areas applied to neoplasms and tumor-like lesions of the sellar region.

Dr. Rosalinda Calandrelli
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • adenomas
  • craniopharyngiomas
  • skull base lesions
  • infections
  • cystic lesions
  • vascular lesions
  • MRI
  • CT
  • radiomics

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (5 papers)

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9 pages, 11401 KiB  
Article
Differentiating between Lymphoma and Metastasis Presenting as Solid Cerebellar Mass Lacking Necrosis
by Gye Ryeong Park, Byung Hyun Baek, Seul Kee Kim, Woong Yoon, Ilwoo Park, Yun Young Lee and Tae-Young Jung
Diagnostics 2024, 14(19), 2228; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14192228 - 6 Oct 2024
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Abstract
Objectives: This study aimed to identify radiologic features that differentiate lymphoma from metastasis manifesting as a solid enhancing mass lacking necrosis in the cerebellum. Methods: Pathologically confirmed 24 primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) and 32 metastasis patients with solid enhancing cerebellar masses [...] Read more.
Objectives: This study aimed to identify radiologic features that differentiate lymphoma from metastasis manifesting as a solid enhancing mass lacking necrosis in the cerebellum. Methods: Pathologically confirmed 24 primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) and 32 metastasis patients with solid enhancing cerebellar masses without necrotic or hemorrhagic components were retrospectively analyzed. We evaluated the imaging characteristics using contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The serrate sign was defined as a tumor spreading along white matter with branch-like enhancement or outward spikes. Results: The serrate sign was exclusively identified in the PCNSL group, showing a significant difference compared to the metastasis group (75.0% vs. 0%, p < 0.001). Homogeneous enhancement occurred more frequently in PCNSL than in metastasis (91.7% vs. 21.9%, p < 0.001). Conversely, bulging contour (62.5% vs. 4.2%, p < 0.001) and surface involvement (71.9% vs. 29.2%, p = 0.003) were more prevalent in metastasis than PCNSL. For predicting PCNSL, the serrate sign demonstrated 75.0% sensitivity, 100% specificity, 100% positive predictive value, 84.2% negative predictive value, and 89.3% accuracy. Conclusions: This study found that the serrate sign and homogeneous enhancement are reliable MRI features for differentiating cerebellar PCNSL from metastasis, whereas a bulging contour and surface involvement suggest metastasis. The serrate sign demonstrated diagnostic significance in differentiating PCNSL from metastasis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Imaging of Brain Disease)
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10 pages, 767 KiB  
Article
Differential Analysis of Venous Sinus Diameters: Unveiling Vascular Alterations in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis
by Abdulkadir Tunç, Gurkan Danisan, Onur Taydas, Ahmet Burak Kara, Samet Öncel and Mustafa Özdemir
Diagnostics 2024, 14(16), 1760; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14161760 - 13 Aug 2024
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Abstract
Background: Alterations in the cerebral venous system have been increasingly recognized as a significant component of the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS). This study aimed to explore the relationship between venous sinus diameter and MS to understand potential vascular alterations in MS patients [...] Read more.
Background: Alterations in the cerebral venous system have been increasingly recognized as a significant component of the pathophysiology of multiple sclerosis (MS). This study aimed to explore the relationship between venous sinus diameter and MS to understand potential vascular alterations in MS patients compared with controls. We sought to determine whether these alterations were correlated with disease characteristics such as duration, lesion type, and disability score. Methods: This study included 79 MS patients diagnosed according to the 2017 McDonald criteria and 67 healthy individuals. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans via a 1.5 Tesla system provided measurements of the superior sagittal sinus, right and left transverse sinus, sinus rectus, and venous structures. Statistical analysis was conducted via SPSS, employing independent sample t tests, ANOVA, chi-square tests, and Pearson correlation analysis, with the significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: This study revealed significant differences in venous sinus diameter between MS patients and controls, with MS patients exhibiting larger diameters. Specifically, patients with brainstem and spinal lesions had larger diameters in certain sinus regions. No significant correlations were found between venous sinus diameter and demographic factors, expanded disability status scale scores, or lesion counts. However, a significant increase in perivenular lesions was noted in patients with longer disease durations. Conclusions: The findings indicate notable vascular alterations in MS patients, particularly in venous sinus diameters, suggesting a potential vascular component in MS pathology. The lack of correlation with conventional clinical and MRI metrics highlights the complexity of MS pathology. These insights underscore the need for further research, particularly longitudinal studies, to elucidate the role of venous changes in MS progression and their potential as therapeutic targets. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Imaging of Brain Disease)
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19 pages, 3093 KiB  
Article
Fetal MRI Analysis of Corpus Callosal Abnormalities: Classification, and Associated Anomalies
by Kranthi K. Marathu, Farzan Vahedifard, Mehmet Kocak, Xuchu Liu, Jubril O. Adepoju, Rakhee M. Bowker, Mark Supanich, Rosario M. Cosme-Cruz and Sharon Byrd
Diagnostics 2024, 14(4), 430; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14040430 - 15 Feb 2024
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Abstract
Background. Corpus callosal abnormalities (CCA) are midline developmental brain malformations and are usually associated with a wide spectrum of other neurological and non-neurological abnormalities. The study aims to highlight the diagnostic role of fetal MRI to characterize heterogeneous corpus callosal abnormalities using the [...] Read more.
Background. Corpus callosal abnormalities (CCA) are midline developmental brain malformations and are usually associated with a wide spectrum of other neurological and non-neurological abnormalities. The study aims to highlight the diagnostic role of fetal MRI to characterize heterogeneous corpus callosal abnormalities using the latest classification system. It also helps to identify associated anomalies, which have prognostic implications for the postnatal outcome. Methods. In this study, retrospective data from antenatal women who underwent fetal MRI between January 2014 and July 2023 at Rush University Medical Center were evaluated for CCA and classified based on structural morphology. Patients were further assessed for associated neurological and non-neurological anomalies. Results. The most frequent class of CCA was complete agenesis (79.1%), followed by hypoplasia (12.5%), dysplasia (4.2%), and hypoplasia with dysplasia (4.2%). Among them, 17% had isolated CCA, while the majority (83%) had complex forms of CCA associated with other CNS and non-CNS anomalies. Out of the complex CCA cases, 58% were associated with other CNS anomalies, while 8% were associated with non-CNS anomalies. 17% of cases had both. Conclusion. The use of fetal MRI is valuable in the classification of abnormalities of the corpus callosum after the confirmation of a suspected diagnosis on prenatal ultrasound. This technique is an invaluable method for distinguishing between isolated and complex forms of CCA, especially in cases of apparent isolated CCA. The use of diffusion-weighted imaging or diffusion tensor imaging in fetal neuroimaging is expected to provide further insights into white matter abnormalities in fetuses diagnosed with CCA in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Imaging of Brain Disease)
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13 pages, 4962 KiB  
Article
Trouillas’s Grading and Post-Surgical Tumor Residue Assessment in Pituitary Adenomas: The Importance of the Multidisciplinary Approach
by Rosalinda Calandrelli, Pier Paolo Mattogno, Sabrina Chiloiro, Marco Gessi, Gabriella D’Apolito, Tommaso Tartaglione, Antonella Giampietro, Antonio Bianchi, Francesco Doglietto, Liverana Lauretti and Simona Gaudino
Diagnostics 2024, 14(3), 274; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14030274 - 26 Jan 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1258
Abstract
Background: We aim to assess the role of a multidisciplinary approach in pituitary adenomas (PitNETs) classification, evaluate criteria concordance, and compare intraoperative assessments with post-operative MRIs for tumor remnants. Methods: Clinical, radiological, histological, and intra- and post-operative data of the treated PitNETs were [...] Read more.
Background: We aim to assess the role of a multidisciplinary approach in pituitary adenomas (PitNETs) classification, evaluate criteria concordance, and compare intraoperative assessments with post-operative MRIs for tumor remnants. Methods: Clinical, radiological, histological, and intra- and post-operative data of the treated PitNETs were extracted from prospectively created records. PitNETs were graded according to Trouillas, and the evaluation of the tumor remnants was recorded. Results: Of 362 PitNETs, 306 underwent surgery, with Trouillas grading assigned to 296. Eight-nine radiologically non-invasive PitNETs progressed to grades 1b (27), 2a (42), or 2b (20) due to proliferative or surgical invasiveness criteria. Twenty-six radiologically invasive tumors were graded 2b due to proliferative criteria. Surgical resection details and post-surgical MRI findings revealed that residual tumors were more common in grades 2a and 2b. During surgery, small tumor remnants were documented in 14 patients which were not visible on post-surgical MRI. Post-surgical MRIs identified remnants in 19 PitNETs not seen during surgery, located in lateral recesses of the sella (4), retrosellar (2), or suprasellar regions (7), along the medial wall of the cavernous sinus (6). Conclusions: The Pituitary Board allows for the correct grading of PitNETs to be obtained and an accurate identification of high-risk patients who should undergo closer surveillance due to tumor remnants. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Imaging of Brain Disease)
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Case Report
Spontaneous Intracranial Hypotension: Case Report and Update on Diagnosis and Treatment
by Maria Carolina Jurcau, Anamaria Jurcau, Vlad Octavian Hogea and Razvan Gabriel Diaconu
Diagnostics 2024, 14(9), 881; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics14090881 - 24 Apr 2024
Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1468
Abstract
Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is an important cause of daily headaches that occur in young and middle-aged, active persons and is often misdiagnosed, leading to prolonged inactivity and rather high healthcare expenditures. Its diagnosis requires a high degree of clinical suspicion and careful [...] Read more.
Spontaneous intracranial hypotension (SIH) is an important cause of daily headaches that occur in young and middle-aged, active persons and is often misdiagnosed, leading to prolonged inactivity and rather high healthcare expenditures. Its diagnosis requires a high degree of clinical suspicion and careful interpretation of imaging studies. We present a case of SIH, which was successfully treated but which posed serious diagnostic challenges, ranging from cerebro-vascular disease and meningitis to granulomatous diseases, and for whom every therapeutic attempt just worsened the patient’s condition until we finally reached the correct diagnosis. To raise awareness of this condition, we also present an updated overview of the clinical picture, evaluation, and treatment options for SIH. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnostic Imaging of Brain Disease)
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