Haemangioma calcificans

Abstract

Haemangioma calcificans is a relatively rare intracranial tumour, which is characterized by the presence of a calcified nodule in or near the brain. The patient is most often an adult of either sex, who develops seizures. The lesion can be large enough to produce raised intracranial pressure. The location of tumour is subcortical and often in the temporal lobe. It is usually solitary and benign in nature. Microscopically, there are thin-walled blood vessels separated by dense fibrous bands containing deposits of haemosiderin and calcium. On electron microscopy, tubular structures limited by a wall of electrodense material and irregular calcium deposits within them are prominent features. Four cases of haemangioma calcificans are described here with review of literature.