title: Radiation-induced cavernous malformations of the cauda equina mimicking carcinomatous or infectious meningitis. A case report.
abstract: The authors present a case of multiple radiation-induced cavernous malformations of the cauda equina in a patient with a remote history of testicular cancer and extended field radiation therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated multiple nodular areas of enhancement coating the nerve roots of the cauda equina, mimicking an aggressive leptomeningeal process such as carcinomatous or infectious meningitis. Biopsy of one of these lesions revealed ectatic vascular channels devoid of intervening neuroglial tissue consistent with cavernous malformation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Radiology, University of California, San Diego Medical Center, San Diego, CA.
authors.forename: Nikdokht
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Farid
authors.forename: Jack
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Zyroff
authors.forename: Christopher M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Uchiyama
authors.forename: Phataraporn K
authors.initials: PK
authors.lastname: Thorson
authors.forename: Steven G
authors.initials: SG
authors.lastname: Imbesi
mesh_terms: D000368:Aged; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods; D008297:Male; D016920:Meningitis, Bacterial / Q000473:pathology*; D010524:Peripheral Nervous System Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D011128:Polyradiculopathy / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology*; D011832:Radiation Injuries / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology*; D020266:Radiotherapy, Conformal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016896:Treatment Outcome