Follow-up MRI Research Articles

7856 In Pursuit of Solutions: Exploring Novel Therapeutic Strategies in the Treatment of a Rare, Aggressive Macroprolactinoma Post-Temozolomide: A Case Report

Abstract Disclosure: N. Konindala: None. H. Darapu: None. K. Ruddiman: None. Introduction: Prolactinomas comprise 40-60% of all pituitary tumors. Most prolactinomas respond well to dopamine agonist treatment. About 10% of these tumors are aggressive prolactinomas (APRL). Although rare, APRLs pose a significant challenge in clinical practice as treatment beyond dopamine agonists, surgery and radiotherapy is limited. A fourth-line therapy called temozolomide may be needed. After temozolomide failure, treatment options are minimal, as there are no evidence-based therapies available for such aggressive pituitary tumors. The efficacy of novel treatment agents remains to be explored. Notably, our case is one of the few where investigational agents, including Pembrolizumab and Pazopanib have been used. We present a case report that contributes to the evolving understanding of potential therapeutic options and highlights the ongoing challenges in refractory prolactinoma management. Case Presentation: A 77-year-old male was diagnosed with a macroprolactinoma in 2001 and was started on cabergoline with a good therapeutic response. In 2011, there was hormonal and imaging evidence of progression, and the patient underwent transsphenoidal hypophysectomy with gross resection followed by gamma knife radiation. The patient was found to have a recurrence of his tumor five years later and underwent repeat transsphenoidal resection. He continued to show evidence of recurrence and was recommended for chemoradiation and adjunct temozolomide (TMZ). After 12 cycles of TMZ, a repeat MRI was done, which showed radiographic recurrence. The patient had a third transsphenoidal surgery done in August 2022, followed by the initiation of a PARP-1 inhibitor, Olaparib. The development of adverse effects complicated this, and treatment was transitioned to capecitabine and TMZ in Jan 2023. The patient had persistent tumor burden symptoms, and a VEGF inhibitor Avastin was initiated. His symptoms initially improved, but unfortunately, his prolactin levels rose from 895 mg/dL to 1,547mg/dL, indicating evidence of disease progression. Immunotherapy with pembrolizumab was started on 6/2023, and he was given three doses before a follow-up MRI showed continued progression of the disease. He was recommended to start pazopanib, a kinase inhibitor. Discussion: Aggressive Prolactinomas present a rare and intricate management challenge, necessitating a multidisciplinary approach. Despite standard therapies, achieving remission can be elusive. While Pembrolizumab showed promise in reported cases, our patient remained refractory. Literature indicates favorable responses to Pazopanib in a small number of refractory cases. A reassessment in a few months will evaluate our patient's response to Pazopanib. This case emphasizes the need for further research to refine refractory prolactinoma management and develop response indicators for investigational agents. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Rates and predictors of loss to follow-up for sporadic vestibular schwannomas undergoing imaging surveillance.

Imaging surveillance with serial MRI, or a "wait-and-scan" approach, is a management option for patients with small or medium-sized vestibular schwannomas (VSs). Prior publications have indicated no distinct quality of life advantage to upfront treatment compared with initial wait-and-scan management. However, imaging surveillance is dependent on patient adherence to follow-up. In this study, the authors aimed to identify rates and predictors of patient loss to follow-up during wait-and-scan management of sporadic VS. A single-center study was conducted including all patients from 2013 to 2018 who had undergone upfront imaging surveillance of sporadic VS. Patient data were retrospectively obtained from the electronic medical record. Outcomes of interest included loss to follow-up unrelated to death and inconsistent adherence to imaging surveillance recommendations. Logistic regression analyses were conducted to evaluate factors associated with loss to follow-up. Over a 6-year study period, 270 patients underwent initial imaging surveillance of a sporadic VS. The median tumor diameter was 8.6 mm (range 1-28.9 mm). At the time of censoring, 106 patients (39.3%) had received treatment, 157 (58.1%) had been advised to continue follow-up, and 7 (2.6%) had died of non-VS-related causes. In total, 73 patients (27.0%) were completely lost to follow-up prior to the first treatment or death. Additionally, 60 patients (22.2%) missed at least 1 MRI follow-up or imaging follow-up was delayed by more than 1 year. Multivariable logistic regression identified an out-of-state residence (OR 3.05, 95% CI 1.58-5.89, p = 0.0009) and a smaller tumor size (unit OR per 1-mm increase in size, OR 0.88, 95% CI 0.83-0.95, p = 0.0006) to be associated with loss to follow-up. Patients living ≥ 350 miles from the hospital or with tumors ≤ 3 mm at the time of initial clinic evaluation were most likely to be lost to follow-up. Only a smaller tumor size was associated with an increased risk of inconsistent imaging follow-up (unit OR per 1-mm increase in size, OR 0.92, 95% CI 0.87-0.98, p = 0.007). Patients undergoing imaging surveillance of VS are at risk for loss to follow-up and inconsistent imaging surveillance. Patients with smaller tumors or those living farther away from the treating institution are at highest risk for being lost to follow-up.

An Unusual Paediatric Neck Mass: Cervical Lipoblastoma with Spinal Involvement.

Lipoblastoma is a benign tumour derived from embryonic white fat and is more commonly seen in children. Spinal involvement is rare, with only 14 cases reported to date. We report a case of a 7-year-old boy who was presented with an asymptomatic right neck swelling for 5 years. Clinical examination revealed a soft multilobulated mass causing tracheal deviation with normal neurological examination. Ultrasound, Computed tomography and Magnetic resonance imaging showed a lipomatous lesion with extension to spinal foramina at C3-C5 causing displacement of the spinal cord. Near total excision of the tumour was done with a small remnant left behind at C3-C4 as it was tightly adhered to the vertebral artery. Histopathological samples were consistent with lipoblastoma. The patient developed ipsilateral ptosis and pupillary myosis which improved on the second-month postoperative review; no other neurological deficit was noted, and a follow-up cervical MRI showed no recurrence.

CellKine clinical trial: first report from a phase 1 trial of allogeneic bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells in subjects with painful lumbar facet joint arthropathy

Abstract Background: Lumbar facet joint arthropathy (LFJA) is a major cause of low back pain (LBP), with current treatments offering limited long-term benefits. Bone marrow–derived mesenchymal stem cells (BM-MSCs) show promise due to their immunomodulatory and trophic effects, potentially addressing underlying degenerative processes in LFJA. Objectives: This initial report describes the outcomes of the first treated patient in an ongoing mutidisciplinary phase 1 clinical trial evaluating the safety and feasibility of intra-articular allogeneic BM-MSCs for painful LFJA. Methods: Following enrollment in our IRB-approved protocol, symptomatic LFJA was confirmed through double blocks on L4 and L5 medial branches. Two 1-mL syringes, each containing 10 million BM-MSCs, were prepared in the cGMP facility and administered bilaterally to the patient’s L4-L5 lumbar facet joints. The patient underwent standardized follow-ups, including clinical examinations and functional and imaging assessments for 2 years, utilizing patient-reported outcomes measurement information system—computer adaptive tests (PROMIS CATs), visual analogue scale, Oswestry disability index, work functional status and opioid pain medication use, and MR imaging Fenton–Czervionke score. Results: The patient tolerated the procedure well, with no drug-related adverse events during the study period. Pain, spine function, and work functional status improved at multiple follow-ups. This patient also reported improvements in mental and social health, along with a notable improvement in the grade of facet synovitis observed at the one-year follow-up MRI evaluation. Conclusions: This case report suggests the safety and feasibility of administering intra-articular allogeneic BM-MSCs, offering therapeutic benefits for pain management and functional activities.

An unusual presentation of unilateral vagoglossopharyngeal neuralgia accompanied by unilateral accessory nerve palsy

BackgroundVago-glossopharyngeal neuralgia (VGN) is a rare condition characterized by neuropathic pain in the areas innervated by the glossopharyngeal and vagus nerve. Diagnosis can be challenging due to its rarity and the need to differentiate it from other sources of pain. Neurovascular conflicts involving the glossopharyngeal nerve and surrounding vasculature are often implicated in the development of VGN. Surgical interventions, such as microvascular decompression, have shown promise in relieving symptoms, but long-term outcomes remain poorly understood. This case report presents a unique manifestation of VGN accompanied by unilateral accessory nerve palsy and syncope, shedding light on the complexities involved in diagnosis and management.Case presentationThe presented case involves a 42-year-old patient without comorbidities with a 1-year history of syncope, dysphonia, cough, oropharyngeal pain, dysphagia, right periaricular pain, and weakness of the right sternocleidomastoid and trapezius muscle. After an initial evaluation, compression of the right cranial nerves IX, X, and XI by the posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) was identified as the cause. The patient underwent microvascular decompression, which provided 3 years of symptom relief. However, symptoms recurred with additional manifestations, including left periauricular pain and increased syncopal episodes of cardiogenic origin. A follow-up brain MRI revealed compression of the left cranial nerves IX and X. A second surgical intervention targeting the left side resulted in partial improvement but symptom reappearance after 1 year. Finally, a third surgery involving the left side was performed, and along with isolating the affected cranial nerves, two superior rootlets of the vagus nerve were rhizotomized. Postoperative recovery was successful, with complete resolution of symptoms and no recurring issues during follow-up examinations.ConclusionThis case underscores the complexity of diagnosing and managing neurovascular conflicts associated with VGN pain syndrome. While initial microvascular decompression provided relief, the recurrence of symptoms and emergence of new manifestations highlight the challenges in managing this condition. Precise identification of nerve compression and targeted surgical interventions, such as sectioning the superior roots of the vagus nerve, offer potential efficacy in refractory cases. Further studies and long-term follow-up are necessary to gain comprehensive insights into the progression and outcomes of these interventions.

Treatment of massive rotator cuff tears with modified Chinese-way technique

To explore clinical effect of modified Chinese-way technique under shoulder arthroscopy in treating massive rotator cuff tears. From January 2019 to June 2022, 22 patients with massive rotator cuff tears who underwent arthroscopic rotator cuff repair with improved Chinese-way technique, including 10 males and 12 females, aged from 46 to 76 years old with an average of(64.14±7.45) years old;the courses of disease ranged from 5 to 14 months with an average of(8.32±2.42) months;19 patients were complete repaired, and 3 patients were partial repaired. Visual analogue scale (VAS) and University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA) scale were used to evaluate pain and function of shoulder joint preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively. Postoperative complications, the integrity of reconstructed tissue structure and the size of subacromial space were observed. All patients were followed up from 12 to 34 months with an average of (17.14±5.93) months. Re-tear were occurred in 4 patients during MRI follow-up, but clinical symptoms of patients were improved significantly and they were satisfied with the treatment, the others were no complications such as incision infection, peripheral nerve injury, loosening and falling off of internal fixation anchors. Preoperative and 1 year after operation VAS were (8.05±1.12) and (1.82±1.50), UCLA scores were (7.45±1.65) and (31.41±2.87) respectively, and the difference was statistically significant (P<0.05). The modified Chinese-way technique under shoulder arthroscopy for the massive rotator cuff tear could relieve pain obviously and recovery postoperative function well, with satisfactory curative effect.

Stepwise Corrected Attention Registration Network for Preoperative and Follow-Up Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Glioma Patients.

The registration of preoperative and follow-up brain MRI, which is crucial in illustrating patients' responses to treatments and providing guidance for postoperative therapy, presents significant challenges. These challenges stem from the considerable deformation of brain tissue and the areas of non-correspondence due to surgical intervention and postoperative changes. We propose a stepwise corrected attention registration network grounded in convolutional neural networks (CNNs). This methodology leverages preoperative and follow-up MRI scans as fixed images and moving images, respectively, and employs a multi-level registration strategy that establishes a precise and holistic correspondence between images, from coarse to fine. Furthermore, our model introduces a corrected attention module into the multi-level registration network that can generate an attention map at the local level through the deformation fields of the upper-level registration network and pathological areas of preoperative images segmented by a mature algorithm in BraTS, serving to strengthen the registration accuracy of non-correspondence areas. A comparison between our scheme and the leading approach identified in the MICCAI's BraTS-Reg challenge indicates a 7.5% enhancement in the target registration error (TRE) metric and improved visualization of non-correspondence areas. These results illustrate the better performance of our stepwise corrected attention registration network in not only enhancing the registration accuracy but also achieving a more logical representation of non-correspondence areas. Thus, this work contributes significantly to the optimization of the registration of brain MRI between preoperative and follow-up scans.

Cranio-Orbital Approach and Decompression of the Optic Nerves: A 2-Stage, 4-by-4-Step Approach to Improve Vision in Sellar and Parasellar Lesions.

Despite advances in cranial base techniques, surgery of the sellar and parasellar regions remains challenging because of complex neurovascular relationships. Lesions within this region frequently present with progressive visual deterioration caused by distortion and compression of the optic chiasm and nerves. In addition to the direct mass effect from mechanical forces acting on the optic apparatus, these lesions alter blood supply and reduce vascular perfusion, prompting surgical treatment to remove the lesion, alleviate compression, and improve blood flow to the optic nerve. We sought to describe a 2-stage, 4-by-4-step approach, broken down and described as a "four-by-four" technique for optic apparatus decompression and a wide approach to different sellar and parasellar lesions. We describe the operative nuances and key anatomic points in the microsurgical removal of sellar and parasellar lesions. The technique is illustrated with examples of different cases with pre- and follow-up MRI imaging and a brief overview of visual outcomes. The described technique has been demonstrated in various lesions in 5 patients. Patients presented with bilateral visual loss in 4 (80.0%) cases and with unilateral visual loss in 1 (20.0%) case. Improvement in visual function was noted in all cases, confirmed with visual acuity and visual field testing. The transcranial approach ("from above") remains an important surgical option for patients with excellent exposure and visualization of the sellar and parasellar regions. It permits early access to the optic canal for careful microsurgical decompression and relaxation of the optic nerve to preserve and improve its microvascularization and ultimately vision. The authors augmented the 2-stage, 4-by-4-step technique of decompression with elaborate illustrations of diverse sellar and parasellar lesions to demonstrate the versatility of this approach.

Dynamics of tumor evolution after Gammaknife radiosurgery for sporadic vestibular schwannoma: defining volumetric patterns characterizing individual trajectory.

Definition of tumor control and treatment failure after Gammaknife radiosurgery (GKRS) for vestibular schwannoma (VS) is still debated. The lack of knowledge on the dynamics of tumor evolution can lead to misinterpretation and subsequent inappropriate second treatment. The aim of this study was to evaluate the post-GKRS dynamics of evolution of tumor volume, and characterize volumetric patterns. We included patients with sporadic VS treated by GKRS with an MRI follow-up of minimum 3 years. A clustering in 2 steps was performed: definition of the patterns of evolution based on a subset of patients with the most comprehensive follow-up, then assignment of the remaining patients on a best fit basis. The minimum length of follow-up was assessed by measuring the consistency of the clusters over time (Adjusted Rand Index and Normalized Mutual Information). An analysis of the discriminant variables was finally performed. 1,607 patients were included (median follow-up: 67 months). Five patterns were defined with one pattern gathering almost all cases of treatment failure. The clustering at 5 years afforded the highest consistency with long-term follow-up. Discriminant variables for clusters were: sex, initial symptoms, delay of diagnosis, Koos grading, fundus invasion, and number of isocenters. The definition of these robust distinct patterns is likely to help tremendously the physicians to distinguish tumor control from potential failure. We advocate for no retreatment decision before 5 years post-GKRS. Further investigations are required to decide if the dynamics of evolution can be predicted at GKRS on an individual basis.

Beyond the Needle: Understanding Tissue Marker Migration in Breast MRI-Guided Biopsies.

To evaluate the frequency and factors associated with clip migration in MRI-guided breast biopsies. This study was approved by our Institutional Review Board and was compliant with HIPAA. We retrospectively evaluated all MRI-guided biopsies performed between January 2013 and December 2020 in our institution for clip migration. Only patients with follow-up breast MRI showing the clip were included in the study. Migration was defined as movement of the clip of 10mm or more from the target lesion. Migration frequency and directions were recorded. Factors associated with clip migration were analyzed using statistical tests as appropriate. A total of 291 biopsies in 268 women were included in the study with 31 migration events recorded (11%; 95% CI, 7%-15%). All migrations occurred along the biopsy tract; 97% (30/31) of them displaced distal to the needle entry site. More than 50% regional fat (around the target lesion) was the strongest factor associated with migration, seen in 21/141 women (15%), compared to 10/150 (7%) with 50% or less local fat (P = .023). Global fatty breast was more loosely associated with migration, showing borderline significance (P = .06). Other factors did not correlate with clip migration, including lesion size, depth, or location; pathology result; breast thickness; or biopsy approach. Although clip migration after breast MRI-guided biopsy is an uncommon event, it occurs more often when the target lesion is surrounded by fat, with the clip usually displaced away from the needle entry site.

Clinical and imaging manifestations of intracerebral hemorrhage in brain tumors and metastatic lesions: a comprehensive overview.

This observational study aims to provide a detailed clinical and imaging characterization/workup of acute intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) due to either an underlying metastasis (mICH) or brain tumor (tICH) lesion. We conducted a retrospective, single-center study, evaluating patients presenting with occult ICH on initial CT imaging, classified as tICH or mICH on follow-up MRI imaging according to the H-Atomic classification. Demographic, clinical and radiological data were reviewed. We included 116 patients (tICH: 20/116, 17.24%; mICH: 96/116, 82.76%). The most common malignancies causing ICH were lung cancer (27.59%), malignant melanoma (18.10%) and glioblastoma (10.34%). The three most common stroke-like symptoms observed were focal deficit (62/116, 53.45%), dizziness (42/116, 36.21%) and cognitive impairment (27/116, 23.28%). Highest mICH prevalence was seen in the occipital lobe (mICH: 28.13%, tICH: 0.00%; p = 0.004) with tICH more in the corpus callosum (tICH: 10.00%, mICH: 0.00%; p = 0.029). Anticoagulation therapy was only frequent in mICH patients (tICH: 0.00%, mICH: 5.21%; p = 0.586). Hemorrhage (tICH: 12682 mm3, mICH: 5708 mm3, p = 0.020) and edema volumes (tICH: 49389 mm3, mICH: 20972 mm3, p = 0.035) were significantly larger within tICH patients. More than half of the patients with neoplastic ICH exhibited stroke-like symptoms. Lung cancer was most common in mICH, glioblastoma in tICH. While clinical presentations were similar, significant differences in tumor location and treatments were discernible.

A 2-stage model of heterogenous treatment effects for brain atrophy in multiple sclerosis utilizing the MS PATHS research network

BackgroundTwo-stage models of heterogenous treatment effects (HTE) may advance personalized medicine in multiple sclerosis (MS). Brain atrophy is a relatively objective outcome measure that has strong relationships to MS prognosis and treatment effects and is enabled by standardized MRI. ObjectivesTo predict brain atrophy outcomes for patients initiating disease-modifying therapies (DMT) with different efficacies, considering the patients’ baseline brain atrophy risk measured via brain parenchymal fraction (BPF). MethodsAnalyses included patients enrolled in the Multiple Sclerosis Partners Advancing Technology and Health Solutions (MS PATHS) network who started DMT and had complete baseline data and ≥ 6-month brain MRI follow-up. All brain MRIs were acquired using standardized acquisition sequences on Siemens 3T scanners. BPF change risk was derived by linear mixed effects models using baseline covariates. Model performance was assessed by predicted versus actual BPF change R2. Propensity score (PS) weighting was used to balance covariates between groups defined by DMT efficacy (high: natalizumab, alemtuzumab, ocrelizumab, and rituximab; moderate: dimethyl fumarate, fingolimod, and cladribine; low: teriflunomide, interferons, and glatiramer acetate). HTE models predicting 1 year change in BPF were built using a weighted linear mixed effects model with low-efficacy DMT as the reference. ResultsAnalyses included 581 high-, 183 moderate-, and 106 low-efficacy DMT-treated patients. The mean and median number of brain MRI observations per treatment period were 2.9 and 3.0, respectively. Risk model performance R2=0.55. After PS weighting, covariate standardized mean differences were <10 %, indicating excellent balance across measured variables. Changes in BPF between baseline and follow-up were found to be statistically significant (p < 0.001), suggesting a pathological change. Patients with low brain atrophy risk had a similar outcome regardless of DMT selection. In patients with high brain atrophy risk, high- and moderate-efficacy DMTs performed similarly, while a 2-fold worse BPF change was predicted for patients selecting low-efficacy DMTs (p < 0.001). Similar results were observed in a sensitivity analysis adjusting for pseudoatrophy effects in a sub-population of patients treated with natalizumab. ConclusionsThe relative benefit of selecting higher efficacy treatments may vary depending on patients’ baseline brain atrophy risk. Poor outcomes are predicted in individuals with high baseline risk who are treated with low-efficacy DMTs.

Long-Term Results of Meniscus Allograft Transplantation With Bone Fixation Show Improved Outcomes but Progression of Joint Space Narrowing, Osteoarthritis, and Cartilage Degeneration

PurposeTo investigate the clinical and objective outcomes of meniscal allograft transplantation (MAT) using bone fixation in patients after a minimum follow-up duration of 15 years, and to compare the demographic factors and allograft status between patients who experienced progression of osteoarthritis and those who did not. MethodsThe consecutive patients who underwent primary MAT between December 1996 and January 2008 were retrospectively reviewed. The inclusion criteria was primary MAT with a minimum follow-up duration of 15 years. Clinical outcomes were evaluated using the modified Lysholm score, along with an evaluation of clinical failure. In objective outcomes, the progression of joint space narrowing, osteoarthritis, and the status of the associated cartilages and allografts were evaluated with follow-up radiographs and MRI. ResultsAmong the 79 cases, 54 knees in 52 patients were included in the study and evaluated for clinical outcomes. The mean Lysholm score improved from 73.9 ± 17.5 preoperatively to 86.4 ± 15.6 over a mean follow-up period of 17.5 ± 3.8 years (P<0.001). Regarding the Minimal clinically important differences (MCID), 38 cases (70.4%) showed an improvement in the Lysholm score. The cumulative clinical survival rate was 87.0%. Objective evaluations evaluated in 32 cases with a minimum of 15 years of radiographic data revealed significant progression of joint space narrowing, osteoarthritis, and cartilage degeneration at the final follow-up, with 11 (34.4%) out of 32 cases exhibiting allograft tears involving ˃50% of the allograft. Patients with osteoarthritis progression exhibited more meniscal allograft tears and extrusion on the last follow-up MRI scan than those without progression. ConclusionNotable progression in joint space narrowing, osteoarthritis, and cartilage degeneration were observed in objective assessment. The progression of osteoarthritis might be associated with allograft tears and extrusion. In clinical evaluations, favorable long-term clinical outcomes were consistently demonstrated after MAT using the bone fixation technique. Level of EvidenceLevel Ⅳ, therapeutic case series.

Intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging (IVIM-DWI) combined with conventional MRI for the detection of skull-base invasion in nasopharyngeal carcinoma: comparison with 18F-sodium fluoride (18F-NaF) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT).

The extent of skull base invasion (SBI) in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) directly impacts tumor staging, treatment strategies, and prognosis assessment for NPC patients, emphasizing the critical need for prompt diagnosis and precise assessment of invasion. Thus, we aimed to integrate the advantages of intravoxel incoherent motion diffusion-weighted imaging (IVIM-DWI) and conventional magnetic resonance imaging (cMRI), and assess their combined diagnostic efficacy versus that of 18F-sodium fluoride (18F-NaF) positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) for detecting SBI in NPC patients. The study prospectively and randomly recruited 62 patients newly diagnosed with NPC by pathological biopsy at the Cancer Center of Affiliated Hospital of Guangdong Medical University from January 2021 to September 2022. All patients underwent baseline cMRI, IVIM-DWI, and PET/CT scans. The IVIM-DWI analysis included 3 primary parameters: true diffusion coefficient (D), pseudodiffusion coefficient (D*), and pseudodiffusion fraction (f). SBI was defined as the involvement of any substructure confirmed by follow-up MRI and clinical symptoms. Inter-observer agreement was evaluated utilizing the intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) and kappa coefficients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of cMRI, IVIM-DWI plus cMRI, and PET/CT. DeLong test was used to compare the areas under the curve (AUC) of the 3 modalities. Excellent inter-observer reliability was observed (range, 0.841-0.946). Among the IVIM-DWI parameters, D* + f demonstrated comparable accuracy to D + D* + f (AUC 0.906 vs. 0.904; sensitivity 88.9% vs. 89.8%; specificity 92.3% vs. 91.0%). IVIM-DWI plus cMRI yielded an overall AUC of 0.947, sensitivity of 92.6%, and specificity of 96.8%, surpassing cMRI alone with an AUC of 0.914 (P=0.025), sensitivity of 91.2%, and specificity of 91.7%, as well as 18F-NaF PET/CT with an AUC of 0.852 (P<0.001), sensitivity of 80.1%, and specificity of 90.4%. In detecting substructures of SBI, IVIM-DWI plus cMRI showed superior performance compared to 18F-NaF PET/CT within the petrous part of the temporal bone (AUC 0.968 vs. 0.871, P=0.011; sensitivity 93.5% vs. 87.1%, specificity 100% vs. 87.1%), pterygopalatine fossa (AUC 0.935 vs. 0.831, P=0.032; sensitivity 93.9% vs. 69.7%, specificity 93.1% vs. 96.6%), and foramen ovale (AUC 0.885 vs. 0.710, P=0.019; sensitivity 76.9% vs. 61.5%, specificity 100% vs. 80.6%). IVIM-DWI plus cMRI can accurately detect SBI and the substructures in NPC, providing a valuable reference for personalized treatment strategies and precise prognosis assessment.

Progression of Bone Marrow Lesions and the Development of Knee Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis Initiative Data.

Background Bone marrow lesions (BMLs) are a known risk factor for incident knee osteoarthritis (OA), and deep learning (DL) methods can assist in automated segmentation and risk prediction. Purpose To develop and validate a DL model for quantifying tibiofemoral BML volume on MRI scans in knees without radiographic OA and to assess the association between longitudinal BML changes and incident knee OA. Materials and Methods This retrospective study included knee MRI scans from the Osteoarthritis Initiative prospective cohort (February 2004-October 2015). The DL model, developed between August and October 2023, segmented the tibiofemoral joint into 10 subregions and measured BML volume in each subregion. Baseline and 4-year follow-up MRI scans were analyzed. Knees without OA at baseline were categorized into three groups based on 4-year BML volume changes: BML-free, BML regression, and BML progression. The risk of developing radiographic and symptomatic OA over 9 years was compared among these groups. Results Included were 3869 non-OA knees in 2430 participants (mean age, 59.5 years ± 9.0 [SD]; female-to-male ratio, 1.3:1). At 4-year follow-up, 2216 knees remained BML-free, 1106 showed an increase in BML volume, and 547 showed a decrease in BML volume. BML progression was associated with a higher risk of developing radiographic knee OA compared with remaining BML-free (hazard ratio [HR] = 3.0; P < .001) or BML regression (HR = 2.0; P < .001). Knees with BML progression also had a higher risk of developing symptomatic OA compared with BML-free knees (HR = 1.3; P < .001). Larger volume changes in BML progression were associated with a higher risk of developing both radiographic OA (HR = 2.0; P < .001) and symptomatic OA (HR = 1.7; P < .001). In almost all subchondral plates, especially the medial femur and tibia, BML progression was associated with a higher risk of developing both radiographic and symptomatic OA compared with remaining BML-free. Conclusion Knees with BML progression, according to subregion and extent of volume changes, were associated with an increased risk of OA compared with BML-free knees and knees with BML regression, highlighting the potential utility of monitoring BML volume changes in evaluating interventions to prevent OA development. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00080171 © RSNA, 2024 Supplemental material is available for this article. See also the editorial by Said and Sakly in this issue.

External validation of the MAGNIFI-CD index in patients with complex perianal fistulising Crohn's disease.

There is an increasing need for objective treatment monitoring in perianal fistulising Crohn's disease (pfCD). Therefore, the magnetic resonance novel index for fistula imaging in CD (MAGNIFI-CD) index has been designed and internally validated on the ADMIRE-CD trial cohort. The aim of this study was to externally validate the MAGNIFI-CD index to monitor response to medical and surgical treatment regimens in pfCD. A retrospective longitudinal cohort was established of consecutive patients with complex pfCD treated with surgical and/or medical therapy and a baseline and follow-up MRI between January 2007 and May 2021. The MAGNIFI-CD index was scored by two independent, abdominal radiologists blinded for time points and clinical outcomes. Responsiveness, reliability, and test accuracy regarding clinically important improvement were assessed. Cut-offs for response and remission were selected classified on fistula drainage assessment and physician global assessment. A total of 65 patients (51% female, median age 32 years) were included. A clinically relevant responsiveness of the MAGNIFI-CD was shown, with a significant decrease in clinical remitters and responders with a median MAGNIFI-CD of 18.0 [7.5-20.0] to 9.0 [0.8-16.0] (p < 0.001) and non-significant change in non-responders with a median MAGNIFI-CD of 20.0 [12.0-23.0] to 18.0 [13.0-21.0] (p = 0.22). There was an 'almost perfect' interobserver agreement (ICC = 0.87; 95% CI 0.80-0.92) for the MAGNIFI-CD index. An optimal cut-off value was defined as a decrease of 2 points for clinical response, and a MAGNIFI-CD ≤ 6 for remission at follow-up MRI. The MAGNIFI-CD index is a responsive and reliable MRI scoring instrument for treatment monitoring in perianal fistulising Crohn's disease. The MAGNIFI-CD index is a well-structured, responsive scoring instrument to assess fistula severity and activity that allows quantitative detection of changes in therapy response in patients with perianal fistulising Crohn's disease, thereby facilitating endpoints in clinical trials. Well-defined cut-offs for response and remission are needed for objective treatment monitoring of perianal fistulising Crohn's disease (pfCD). Cut-off values for remission and for response at 6 months follow-up were defined. Interobserver agreement was good. The MAGNIFI-CD index is responsive and reliable for treatment monitoring and is suitable for use in clinical trials.

Hepatic focal nodular hyperplasia during follow-up of patients after cyclophosphamide- or oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy: differentiation from liver metastasis

ObjectivesNewly detected hepatic nodules during follow-up of cancer survivors receiving chemotherapy may pose a diagnostic dilemma. We investigated a series of hepatic focal nodular hyperplasia (FNH) diagnosed by either typical MRI features and follow-up or pathology in cancer survivors.MethodsThis retrospective study evaluated 38 patients with tumours who developed new hepatic FNH after cyclophosphamide-based (n = 19) and oxaliplatin-based (n = 19) chemotherapies. The main tumour types were breast cancer (n = 18) and colorectal cancer (n = 17). MRI findings, clinical features, and temporal evolution of all target hepatic lesions (n = 63) were reported. In addition, the two chemotherapy drug groups were compared.ResultsThe median interval between chemotherapy completion and FNH detection was 30.4 months (12.9, 49.4). Six patients underwent biopsy or surgery, while the remaining patients were diagnosed based on typical MRI features and long-term follow-up. Among the patients, 60.5% (23/38) presented with multiple nodules and 63 target lesions were detected. The median size of target lesions was 11.5 mm (8.4, 15.1). The median follow-up time was 32.5 months (21.2, 48.6), and 15 patients experienced changes in their lesions during the follow-up period (11 increased and 4 decreased). The cyclophosphamide-based treatment group had a younger population, a greater proportion of females, and a shorter time to discovery than the oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy group (all p ≤ 0.016).ConclusionsFNH may occur in cancer survivors after cyclophosphamide- or oxaliplatin-based chemotherapy. Considering a patient’s treatment history and typical MRI findings can help avoid misdiagnosis and unnecessary invasive treatment.Clinical relevance statementWhen cancer survivors develop new hepatic nodules during follow-up, clinicians should think of the possibility of focal nodular hyperplasia in addition to liver metastasis, especially if the cancer survivors were previously treated with cyclophosphamide or oxaliplatin.Key PointsCancer survivors, after chemotherapy, can develop hepatic focal nodular hyperplasia.Cyclophosphamide and oxaliplatin are two chemotherapeutic agents that predispose to focal nodular hyperplasia development.Focal nodular hyperplasia occurs at shorter intervals in patients treated with cyclophosphamide.Graphical

Metachronous intracranial meningiomas without dural attachment in a child - Rare case report and review of literature.

Meningiomas in children are rare, constituting less than 5% of all paediatric brain tumours and less than 2% of all meningiomas. Multiple meningiomas (synchronous or metachronous) are even more uncommon, typically occurring due to radiation exposure or in patients with phacomatoses like Neurofibromatosis II. This report presents the case of a child with metachronous meningiomas without dural attachment in unusual locations, along with their management. This report aims to describe a rare paediatric case of metachronous meningiomas without dural attachment, detailing their presentation, treatment, and outcomes. A 2-year-old female presented with headaches, irritability, and excessive crying for one year. A CT scan revealed a mass in the fourth ventricle, causing obstruction, which was surgically decompressed. The biopsy confirmed a clear cell meningioma, WHO grade II. A follow-up MRI identified a new lesion in the suprasellar area six months later, for which she underwent right pterional craniotomy and gross total resection, which turned out to be a clear cell meningioma, WHO grade II. The patient recovered well and remained asymptomatic, with no recurrence on MRI at one-year follow-up. This case highlights the unusual presentation of metachronous clear cell meningiomas without dural attachment in a young child. Surgical excision resulted in a favourable outcome, though long-term follow-up is essential due to the high propensity for recurrence.

Natural history of spinal cord compression stage AFMS3 in infants with achondroplasia: retrospective cohort study

Background and objectiveForamen magnum stenosis (FMS) is a common, serious complication of achondroplasia in infancy and associated with sudden infant death. The Achondroplasia Foramen Magnum Score (AFMS; 0–4) is used...

MRI radiation images to predict cartilage injury secondary to posterior horn tear of the medial meniscus

To investigate the correlation between the duration of medial meniscus posterior horn tear (MMPHT) disease and medial meniscus extrusion (MME) to calculate the rate of progression of MME and to predict cartilage damage in the medial tibiofemoral joint. The differences in MME, MJSW, and MME/MMBW between the two MRI examinations were statistically significant (P < 0.001). Follow-up MRI showed increased cartilage damage grading of medial femoral condyle (MFC) and medial tibial plateau (MTP) from the first examination (P < 0.001). The incidence of grade 2–4 cartilage damage in patients increased by 15.0% and 11.7%, respectively.There was a significant correlation between the ΔMME and MRI examination interval (R2 = 0.868); the rate of MME progression showed an increase of 0.026 ± 0.034 mm per month. The cut-off values for predicting cartilage damage in the MTP and MFC were 0.012 and 0.008, respectively. The ΔMME gradually increases with the prolonged duration of MMPHT. MME progression rate can validly predict cartilage damage in the medial tibiofemoral joint. These findings suggest that monitoring the rate of MME progression in patients with MMPHT could be a useful predictor of cartilage damage, potentially aiding in early intervention and management strategies.