Steroid-induced CT changes in patients with recurrent malignant glioma.
The magnitude and time course of steroid-induced CT changes were analyzed in 11 patients with recurrent malignant glioma. CTs were obtained before and at regular intervals after starting dexamethasone (16 mg/d). Midline shift, ventricular compression, edema, enhancement intensity, and the size of the enhancing mass often improved with steroid treatment. Improvement occurred within 2 weeks in most instances. Changes in the volume of the enhancing tumor were assessed quantitatively in eight patients. In six, the mass was smaller after 2 weeks of steroid therapy, and in two the reduction approached 50%. Steroid-induced CT changes can mimic treatment responses. If steroids are necessary for symptom control, patients should be taking these medications for 2 weeks before a baseline CT is obtained and investigational treatment started.
Cairncross
J G
JG
Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, University of Western Ontario, London, Canada.
Macdonald
D R
DR
Pexman
J H
JH
Ives
F J
FJ
D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D001929:Brain Edema / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000188:drug therapy; D001932:Brain Neoplasms / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000188:drug therapy; D003907:Dexamethasone / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D005910:Glioma / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging* / Q000188:drug therapy; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local; D013997:Time Factors; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed
D003907:Dexamethasone