Learning objectives
The aim of this poster is to provide a comprehensive review of physiological and pathological processes that cause intracranial calcifications.
Key imaging features of different physiological and pathological processes will be described,
thereby allowing different conditions to be accurately identified and differentiated.
Background
Intracranial calcification is a commonly encountered finding on computed tomography (CT) of the brain,
often discovered incidentally.
There is a wide spectrum of causative processes,
with imaging features that often overlap.
Calcifications may be physiological and age-related,
or alternatively can be associated with pathology.Being able to accurately recognise anddifferentiate physiological from pathological conditions significantly guides management and the need for further investigation or treatment.
Anatomical localisation,
distribution,
and morphology of calcifications are important features which can help the radiologist narrow potential differentials.
Correlation with clinical...
Findings and procedure details
Physiologic and Age-Related
•Pineal gland
–Occurs in 2/3 of adult population
–Amorphous or ring-like calcifications,
under 3mm from midline,
usually under 10mm in diameter Fig. 1
–Caveat: pineal calcification over 14 mm is concerning for pineal neoplasm
•Habenula
–Occurs in 1/3 population
–Posteriorly open C-shaped calcification 4-6mm anterior to pineal gland Fig. 1
•Choroid plexus
–May calcify in all ventricles – most commonly in thelateral ventricle atria,
near the foramen of Monro and roof of the 4th ventricle Fig. 1
•Basal ganglia
–Incidental calcification may...
Conclusion
Having an appreciation of common calcification patterns allows the radiologist to differentiate physiological variants from pathology.
Recognising characteristic patterns aids accurate diagnosis,
whilst also potentially avoiding the need for further,
unnecessaryinvestigation.
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