Neuroimaging clinics of North America
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Temporal bone pathologies are challenging to discern because of their small size and subtle contrast. MR imaging is one of the key modalities in evaluating otologic diseases. Current advancement in MR techniques provide multiparametric information for evaluation of these pathologies. The aim of this article is to review state-of-the-art 3-dimensional morphologic and diffusion sequences for otologic MR imaging.
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In their variety, temporal bone tumors mirror the complexity of the structure from which they arise. They include more familiar lesions, such as vestibular schwannomas and paragangliomas, and also rarer neoplasms, such as nonvestibular schwannomas, sarcomas, giant cell tumors, Schneiderian papillomas, and endolymphatic sac tumors. ⋯ The ability to differentiate tumors from benign ('don't touch') or indolent lesions can prevent unnecessary morbidity. This article reviews a range of temporal bone neoplasms, focusing on imaging approaches and characteristic imaging findings.
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Neuroimaging Clin. N. Am. · Feb 2019
ReviewManagement of Vestibular Schwannomas for the Radiologist.
Vestibular schwannomas are the most common tumor of the cerebellopontine angle. The history of their management has driven advances in imaging, lateral skull base surgery, as well as radiosurgery. With these advances, a shift has occurred from life-saving treatment for late-stage disease to quality of life focused management of smaller tumors. The complicated treatment paradigms involving observation, stereotactic radiosurgery and surgery require close communication between the treatment and neuroradiology teams.
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Third window abnormalities are bony defects of the inner ear that enable abnormal communication with the middle ear and/or cranial cavity. Vestibular symptoms include vertigo and nystagmus induced by loud noises or increases in pressure. ⋯ High-resolution temporal bone computed tomography is the first-line imaging modality for evaluation of third window pathology and is critical for accurate diagnosis and management. This article reviews the fundamental mechanisms of the third window phenomenon and describes imaging findings and differential diagnosis.