Imaging diagnosis and differential diagnosis of the central neurocytoma

Objective To discuss the MR and CT imaging features of central neurocytoma (CNC). Methods Six cases of CNC proved pathologically (4 males and 2 females,aged 14-46, mean 30 years) were examined by MRI Gd-DTPA enhanced scan and CT before operation. Imaging features of MRI and CT were analyzed retrospectively. Results All lesions were located at the septum pellucidum between the lateral ventricles and (or) the third ventricle near the foramen of Monro, irregular in shape but with clear boundary, and the density of lesions was inhomogeneous (4 located on left and 2 on right lateral ventricle). MRI features were as follows: mainly isointensity with mixed hypointensity on T1WI, isointensity and hyperintensity on T2WI, and marked inhomogeneous enhancement on Gd-DTPA. The lesions were associated with hemorrhage, cyst, and calcification. CT features were inhomogeneous hyperdensity, and irregular calcification and distinct border in 4 cases (66.7%). Conclusion CNC is an uncommon tumor of the brain. MRI and CT imaging has some specificity that is helpful to the diagnosis of CNC.