Board Review 1 – Case 11

Neuroradiology board review. This lecture is geared towards the ABR core exam for residents, but it would be useful for review for the ABR certifying exam or certificate of added qualification (CAQ) exam for neuroradiology.

More description and the answer (spoiler!) are seen below the video.

This case shows a hyperdense structure in the third ventricle near the foramen of Monro on CT of the head. There is mild associated hydrocephalus. Findings on MRI confirm the presence of a mass which is well demarcated and hyperintense on T1 and T2 weighted imaging with minimal enhancement.

The diagnosis is: Colloid cyst

A colloid cyst is a well demarcated, benign mass in the third ventricle near the foramen of Monro. These masses make patients susceptible to rapid onset hydrocephalus which can be fatal, which necessitates their resection.