Updated Imaging Features of Dysplastic Cerebellar Gangliocytoma

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to perform an updated review of the imaging features of dysplastic cerebellar gangliocytoma (DCG).

Methods: Imaging findings were retrospectively reviewed in 14 patients with DCG. The analysis included size, location, cyst formation, calcification, intralesional hemorrhage, enhancement pattern, and apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC).

Results: In addition to revisiting many well-established imaging features of DCG, enhancement was much more common (64.3%) than previously reported, and small enhancing veins were also frequently encountered within or along the periphery of the lesions (50%). Dysplastic cerebellar gangliocytomas had an elevated ADC compared with normal cerebellum (967.8 ± 115.7 vs 770.4 ± 47.3 × 10 mm/s; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions: Enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging within DCG should be an accepted imaging finding rather than being viewed as uncommon or atypical. Dysplastic cerebellar gangliocytomas typically have an elevated ADC compared with normal cerebellum, which may assist in differentiation from other posterior fossa neoplasms.