CT and MR diagnosis of central neurocytoma

Objective:To study CT and MR features of central neurocytoma in order to improve the diagnosis.Methods:CT and MR findings in 5 cases with pathologically-proved central neurocytoma were retrospectively analyzed.Results:All tumors were located at the septum pellucidum between the lateral ventricles and close to Monro foramen,presenting as iso-intensity or slightly hyperintensity on CT,iso-signal or slightly hypointense signal on MR T_1WI,and mixed hyper-signal on T_2WI.The lesion showed a marked inhomogeneous enhancement on CT and MRI.Cystic degeneration within the tumor were seen in most cases.The tumors showed a sharp border.Conclusion:Central neurocytoma should be considered when a mass located at septum pellucidum is found in a young patient.CT and MR is helpful in making a preoperative diagnosis and in deciding surgical plan.