NeuroradiologyNeuroblastoma
(also called primary
cerebral neuroblastoma),
tumour that is considered to belong to the group of
primitive neuroectodermal tumour (PNET) of which it is considered to be the prototypical supratentorial manifestation.
Neuroblastoma occurs in young children, with over 50% found within the first five years of life. Clinical presentation is usually that of raised intracranial pressure.
They are large solid masses, frequently haemorrhagic, with calcification and cysts, typically deep seated within the frontoparietal lobes, adjacent to the lateral ventricles; they may, however, be found anywhere in the nervous system, including the spinal cord. Seeding to the CSF is common.
Histologically neuroblastoma is densely cellular, with a fibrous intratumoural component.
The MR appearance is heterogeneous, and reflects the gross and microscopic structure. Contrast enhancement is mild to moderate. At CT a similar inhomogeneous appearance with mild to moderate enhancement is observed.
GS