Intracranial calcifications. A pictorial review

Abstract

Brain calcifications are a common radiographic finding. The pathogenesis is diverse and ranges from benign physiological calcifications to a variety of pathological disorders. Whereas certain calcifications are considered an incidental finding, their presence can sometimes be crucial in making a specific diagnosis. Several pathological conditions affecting the brain parenchyma are associated with calcifications and their recognition and location might help in narrowing the differential. Knowledge of physiological calcifications is essential to avoid misinterpretation. This review illustrates a broad spectrum of CNS disorders associated with calcifications, and tries to highlight the salient radiological findings.