Pontine Cavernous Haemangioma

cavernoma_axial_t2

Axial T2-weighted MRI showing a nice example of a cavernoma in the pons. Note the typical “popcorn” appearance with a rim of signal loss due to haemosiderin. Cavernous haemangiomas are vascular malformations - 75% are solitary. Multiple lesions may be familial and screening of family members may be indicated. Most patients present age 40-60. Presentation may be with seizure or focal neurological deficit. The risk of haemorrhage is 1% per year for familial cases, and somewhat less for sporadic lesions.

Reference: Osborn AG et al. Pocket Radiologist: Brain Top 100 Diagnoses Amirsys

Credit: Dr Laughlin Dawes