[Manifestation and diagnostic value of MR imaging in meningeal carcinomatosis].
OBJECTIVE
To analyze the patterns of MRI manifestation, and to investigate the value of MRI in diagnosis of meningeal carcinomatosis.


METHODS
Twenty three cases with meningeal carcinomtosis were analyzed. All cases had pre- and post- contrast MR imagings, typical clinical symptoms and/or positive CSF examination.


RESULTS
Of the 23 cases, 22 had abnormal post-contrast meningeal enhancement. The remaining case had hydrocephalus without any enhancement. There were four abnormal MRI patterns: (1)total meningeal enhancement, (2) smooth or nodular enhancement of parts of the meninge, (3)subependymal enhancement, (4)hydrocephalus only.


CONCLUSIONS
MRI is an important assistant method in diagnosis of meningeal carcinomatosis. Post-contrast MRI is mandatory.
Wang
R
R
MRI Department Chongqing Cancer Institute.
Mao
M
M
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D016543:Central Nervous System Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D008577:Meningeal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000556:secondary*