Imaging Diagnosis of Cavernous Hemangioma in Cavernous Sinus (a Report of 4 Cases)

Objective:To investigate the imaging features of cavernous hemangiomas in cavernous sinus and thus to promote the diagnostic ability of the disorder.Methods:A retrospective analysis of 4 cases of cavernous hemangioma in car- vernous sinus,proved surgically and pathologically,was studied.CT and MRI examinations were undergone in all cases,and DSA had also been performed.Results:All of the 4 cases were situated at left cavernous sinus.Mildly and homogeneously hyperdense lesions,accompanying with considerable bony erosion of the sphenoid and no calcification,were found on CT.MRI studies revealed that the signal intensity of the cavernous hemangiomas was homogeneous and lower than that of the gray matter on T_1WI,while slightly higher and homogeneous than that of the gray matter on T_2WI.On MR enhancing scans with Gd-DTPA and T_1WI,the lesions demonstrated homogeneously and highly enhanced.Configuration features of the lesions were dumbbell-like in shape,with sharp outlines and smaller medial portion and larger lateral compartment.DSA examination in one case showed remarkable shift of the ICA,however,no lumen stenosis of the vessel was noted.Mild tumor stain of the hemangioma was found in capillary and venous phases.Conclusion:MRI was the best and most valuable pre-operative imaging examination modality of the disease,and both CT and DSA were helpful diagnostic imaging means for differential diagnosis in equivocal cases.