Neuroblastoma: Computed Tomographic Findings

ABSTRACT

PURPOSE: To evaluate the characteristic CT findings of neuroblastoma, we studied neurobalstomas. METHODS AND MATERIALS We analysed CT findings of available 25 cases among pathologically proved 51 neurobalstomas from Jan. 1983 to Sept. 1990. RESULTS: The most frequent site of origin is adrenl gland (40%) and the second is retroperitoneum (32%) and the third ismediastinum (16%). Characteristic CT findings are as followsCalcifications within the tumor is detected in 86% of abdominal neuroblastomas and 50% of mediastinal origin. Hemorrhagic and necrotic changes within the tumor is noted at 86% in the tumor of abdominal origin and 25% in mediastinal neuroblastomas. Contrast enhanced study showed frequently septated enhanced appearance with/without solid contrast enhancement. Encasements of major great vessels such as aorta and IVC with/without displacement by metastatic lymphnodes or tumor are frequently seen in 90% of abdominal neuroblastomas. Multiple lymphadenopathy are detected in 95% of abdominal neurobalstomas and 25% of mediastinal neuroblastomas. The most common organ of contiguous direct invasion is kidney in 6 cases and the next one is liver but intraspinal canal invasion is also noted in 2 cases. CONCLUSION: We concluded that diagnosis of neuroblastoma would be easily obtained in masses of pediatric group from recognition of above characteristic findings.