Rapid serial cranial computed tomography for tumor diagnosis

Abstract

Rapid serial computed tomography (RSCT) provides more information about the cerebral cortical capillary bed and leptomeningeal vessels than conventional enhanced computed tomography (CT). This increased neuroanatomical definition has potential value for separating intra- from extracerebral tumors in selected cases. RSCT offers better visualization of the angioarchitecture of highly vascular tumors than conventional enhanced CT. However, CT scans delayed several minutes after contrast administration are more useful for evaluating the extent of hypovascular tumors. Time-density curves were of limited value for tumor evaluation. However, the peak increase of Hounsfield units did correlate well with the degree of tumor vascularity assessed angiographically.