MRI and CT representations of intracranial dermoid cyst

Abstract

Objective To evaluate the MRI and CT representations and their valuation of intraeranial dermoid cyst. Methods 23 cases who suffered from intracranial dermoid cyst confirmed by pathology were included retrospectively. The MRI and CT representations, and the pathological and clinical characteristics were analyzed.All the cases were performed with MRI, and 20 cases were performed with CT at the same time. Results 22 cases showed inhomogeneous high signal intensity in T1WI and T2WI, 1 cases showed iso-high signal intensity in T1WI and low signal intensity in T2WI. 8 cases showed plaque-like inhomogeneous high signal intensity in DWI. 19 cases showed homogeneous low density in CT scans with standard window width and level ,amt showed inhomogeneous low density with large window width and low window level. One case showed high density in CT scans with standard window width and level. Fat drop in subrachnoid space and bilateral cerebral ventricle and interstitial brain edema were found in 8 cases with MRI and CT. Conclusion Intracranial dermoid cyst always have typical MRI and CT representations. Distinctive representations could be found when the rupture of dermoid cyst exist, and correct diagnosis could be made before operation. MRI is better than CT in the diagnosis of dermoid cyst. Key words: Brain neoplasms; Dermoid cyst; Tomography, X-ray computed; Magnetic resonance imaging