magnetic resonance imaging in evaluation of supratentorial tumours

BACKGROUND Supratentorial tumours mostly present with non-specific complaints such as headache, stroke like syndrome or seizures. Often a diagnosis is made or suggested initially by findings on imaging studies. We wanted to study the imaging findings of supratentorial tumours, so as to deliver the best possible diagnosis and treatment for the patient. METHODS All clinically suspected supratentorial brain tumour cases undergoing Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at GSL Medical College and General Hospital, Rajahmundry, were included in this study. All scans were performed with 1.5 Tesla MRI. Pre-contrast scanning was done using axial T1, T2 and FLAIR; coronal T2 and sagittal T1 with a slice thickness of 5 mm. Post-contrast coronal, sagittal and axial T1WI were obtained. If required, thinner sections were obtained in the region of interest wherever necessary. Special MRI sequences like FLAIR (Fluid Attenuated Inversion Recovery Sequence), and DWI (Diffusion Weighted Imaging) were obtained. RESULTS In this study, 53 cases were diagnosed with supratentorial tumours. Glioma was the most common diagnosis (49%). Peak incidence of neoplasms was seen in fifth decade and the lowest incidence was seen in the first decade. 29 patients were males and 24 patients were females. Headache was the commonest presenting complaint. Twenty-three tumours were homogenous, 22 were heterogenous and 7 had non-enhancing pattern. CONCLUSIONS Multiplanar capability of MRI is helpful in identifying the precise anatomic location and the exact extent of the tumours. Post contrast images clearly define the size, margins, and nature of the tumour and also improves the differentiation between the tumour and surrounding edema.