MRI findings and differential diagnosis of spinal epidural cavernous hemangioma

Objective:To discuss the MRI findings and differential diagnosis of spinal epidural cavernous hemangioma.Methods:Six cases of spinal epidural cavernous hemangioma confirmed by operation and pathology were retrospectively analyzed and compared with other epidural neoplasm.Results:The masses in the six cases showed hyperintensity signal on T2-weighted images,iso-or hyperintensity signal on T1-weighted images and homogeneous strong enhancement.The lesions were at the thoracic level (n=5) and cervical-thoracic level (n=1).The masses were located in the epidural space and extended parallel with the long axis of the spine.Two cases were at the back of the spinal cord,4 cases were at the left or right side back of the spinal cord;and the adjacent intervertebral neural foramen were widened.Conclusions:Spinal epidural cavernous hemangioma is rarely seen in epidural space and have some MRI features.MRI is the most reliable examination means before operation,but definite diagnosis depends on clinical and pathological features.