Chapter 53 - Nonneoplastic Mass Lesions of the Central Nervous System

Abstract

Nonneoplastic mass lesions of the central nervous system mimic tumors clinically and radiographically. Their etiology is diverse. Although nonneoplastic mass lesions may also require surgical resection, recognition of such lesions and an accurate diagnosis utilizing only imaging modalities may, at times, spare the patient from invasive procedures. Failing to differentiate between the two may delay treatment in malignant tumors or result in unnecessary treatment in nonneoplastic lesions. When surgery is required, utilization of imaging modalities to accurately predict a diagnosis may help the neurosurgeon plan the intervention accordingly. This chapter provides an overview of nonneoplastic mass lesions and their characteristics on neuroimaging studies.