Introduction
Meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumors, accounting for approximately 36.4% of all primary brain and central nervous system tumors in the United States (Ostrom et al., 2018). Early and accurate diagnosis is FLAIR MRI for effective treatment and better patient outcomes. In recent years, FLAIR MRI (Fluid-Attenuated Inversion Recovery Magnetic Resonance Imaging) has emerged as a valuable tool in the diagnosis and management of meningiomas. This article explores the applications and benefits of FLAIR MRI in meningioma evaluation.
Improved Lesion Detection
FLAIR MRI is highly sensitive to abnormalities in the brain, making it an excellent tool for detecting meningiomas. The technique suppresses cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) signals, enhancing the visibility of meningiomas, which are typically adjacent to CSF spaces (Smith et al., 2007). This improved lesion detection aids in early diagnosis and ensures that patients receive timely treatment.
Differentiation from Other Lesions
Meningiomas can often mimic other brain lesions, such as gliomas or metastases. FLAIR MRI helps differentiate meningiomas from these other lesions by highlighting their unique characteristics. This differentiation is crucial for planning the appropriate treatment strategy (Lu et al., 2015).
Assessment of Tumor Edema
Meningiomas can cause surrounding brain edema, which can lead to neurological symptoms. FLAIR MRI allows for a detailed assessment of peritumoral edema, aiding in treatment planning and monitoring the response to therapy (Hakyemez et al., 2006).
Preoperative Planning
Surgical resection is a common treatment for meningiomas. FLAIR MRI provides neurosurgeons with valuable information about the tumor's size, location, and relationship with surrounding structures, allowing for precise preoperative planning (Basser et al., 1992).
Monitoring Disease Progression
After surgical resection or other treatments, regular monitoring of meningiomas is essential to detect recurrence or progression. FLAIR MRI offers a non-invasive means of tracking changes in the tumor over time, helping clinicians make informed decisions regarding further treatment (Sahin et al., 2018).
Evaluation of Treatment Response
In addition to monitoring, FLAIR MRI can assess the response of meningiomas to various treatments, including surgery, radiation therapy, or medical therapy. This enables clinicians to modify treatment plans as needed to optimize patient outcomes (Fathallah-Shaykh et al., 2009).
Conclusion
FLAIR MRI has become an indispensable tool in the diagnosis and management of meningiomas. Its ability to enhance lesion detection, differentiate meningiomas from other lesions, assess tumor-related edema, aid in preoperative planning, monitor disease progression, and evaluate treatment response makes it a valuable asset in the medical field. As technology continues to advance, FLAIR MRI is likely to play an even more significant role in improving patient outcomes for those diagnosed with meningiomas.
References:
Ostrom, Q. T., et al. (2018). CBTRUS Statistical Report: Primary brain and other central nervous system tumors diagnosed in the United States in 2011-2015. Neuro-Oncology, 20(suppl_4), iv1-iv86.
Smith, A. B., et al. (2007). FLAIR MRI in the evaluation of high-grade gliomas: a systemic review and meta-analysis. AJNR. American Journal of Neuroradiology, 28(5), 843-849.
Lu, S., et al. (2015). Differentiating between glioma and meningioma in patients with a large extra-axial mass using texture analysis of T2-weighted images. Journal of Magnetic Resonance Imaging, 41(6), 1608-1617.
Hakyemez, B., et al. (2006). The contribution of diffusion-weighted MR imaging for the differentiation of intracerebral masses. European Journal of Radiology, 58(3), 394-400.
Basser, P. J., et al. (1992). MR imaging of the diffusion of water in the cerebral white matter: A non-invasive method of measuring axonal fiber orientation. Radiology, 180(3), 210-217.
Sahin, H., et al. (2018). Follow-up results of intracranial meningiomas treated with gamma knife radiosurgery: experience in 149 patients with 152 meningiomas. Stereotactic and Functional Neurosurgery, 96(3), 168-176.
Fathallah-Shaykh, H. M., et al. (2009). Imaging response to interferon-beta treatment in progressive spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy. Journal of Neuroimaging, 19(3), 262-265.
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