Radiology of skull base neoplasms

Abstract

Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging are used routinely to stage skull base neoplasms preoperatively, define the extent of the tumor, identify perineural spread, plan surgery and radiation therapy, and evaluate the postoperative patient. Arteriography and interventional radiology also play a role in the identification and treatment of certain skull base neoplasms, particularly juvenile nasopharyngeal angiofibromas and paragangliomas. The skull base can be divided into three parts: anterior, central, and posterior. Pathology differs in each region, and CT and MR imaging often demonstrate characteristic imaging features suggestive of diagnosis.