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Current Medical Imaging

Current Medical Imaging

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ISSN (Print): 1573-4056
ISSN (Online): 1875-6603

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Review Article

Leptomeningeal Masses or Masquerades: A Spectrum of Diseases with Leptomeningeal Enhancement and their Mimics

Author(s): Praveen M Yogendra*orcid of author, Oliver James Nickalls and Chi Long Ho

Volume 21, 2025

Published on: 03 January, 2025

Article ID: e15734056340774

Pages: 14

DOI: 10.2174/0115734056340774241227080230

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Abstract

Background: Leptomeningeal enhancement, visible on MRI, can indicate a variety of diseases, both neoplastic and non-neoplastic.

Objective: This comprehensive pictorial review aims to equip radiologists and trainees with a thorough understanding of the diverse imaging presentations of leptomeningeal disease.

Methods: Drawing from a retrospective analysis of MRI scans conducted between 1 January 2008 and 30 September 2022, at two tertiary teaching hospitals in Singapore, this review covers a wide range of conditions.

Results: The main neoplastic conditions discussed include leptomeningeal carcinomatosis, myelomatosis, schwannoma, CNS lymphoma, and pineal region tumors. Additionally, the review addresses non-neoplastic enhancements such as meningoencephalitis, intracranial hypotension, cerebral ischemia/infarction, epidural lipomatosis, syringomyelia, Sturge-Weber syndrome, and subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Conclusion: By highlighting the imaging features and patterns associated with these conditions, the review underscores the critical role of accurate diagnosis and timely management in improving patient outcomes. Enhanced understanding of these conditions can significantly improve patient outcomes through timely and effective therapeutic interventions.

Keywords: Leptomeningeal enhancement, Leptomeningeal mass, Leptomeningeal disease spectrum, Neoplastic conditions, MRI, Radiology.

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