Differential Diagnosis In Neuroimaging. Spine < No Password >

Navigating Spinal Neuroimaging: A Guide to Differential Diagnosis

Are you interested in a (like MRI sequences or CT myelography)? Differential diagnosis in neuroimaging. Spine

These two tumors can look very similar but have distinct features. More common in adults. Centrally located in the cord. Well-circumscribed margins. Frequent "hemosiderin cap" (dark on T2). Astrocytoma: More common in children. Eccentrically located in the cord. Ill-defined, infiltrative margins. Cysts are common, but hemorrhage is rare. 💡 Pro-Tips for the Reading Room Centrally located in the cord

Post-contrast T1-weighted images are vital for evaluating tumors, drop metastases, and active demyelinating plaques. Astrocytoma: More common in children

If the disc is destroyed, think infection first.

Differentiating spinal infection from tumor is a classic radiology challenge. Typically crosses the intervertebral disc. Destroys adjacent vertebral endplates. Shows high T2 signal in the disc. Neoplasm (Metastases): Rarely involves the disc (spares the disc space). Often involves the posterior elements (pedicles). May present with a soft tissue mass. Intramedullary Tumors: Ependymoma vs. Astrocytoma