Radiologic features of the chordoid glioma: a report of three cases

Abstract

Objective To study the radiographic features of the chordoid glioma and its differential diagnosis,and increase neuroradiologists'awareness of this newly described tumor,facilitating prospective diagnosis.Methods Three patients with chordoid glioma were reviewed retrospectively to determine whether any characteristic radiographic findings and clinical-pathologic findings would emerge,and the relevant literatures were reviewed.Routine CT(2 cases)and MR(3 cases),contrast-enhanced MR(3 cases)were performed.Results The masses were well circumscribed and located in the region of the hypothalamus/third ventricle-suprasellar region(2 cases)and intrasuprasellar region(1 case).Tumors were isointense to gray matter on CT scans and were isointense or hypointense on T1WI and hyperintense on T2WI.In two patients,vasogenic edema extended into the optic tracts and cystic or necrotic area was seen.All cases were remarkably enhanced following contrast administration.Conclusions Radiologic findings of the chordoid glioma has some unique features.Tumor,in the region of the hypothalamus-third ventricle-suprasellar region,if it is well circumscribed and remarkably enhancing following contrast administration,should be included in the differential diagnosis. Key words: Gloma; Magnetic resonance imaging; Tomography,X-ray computed