Conventional and advanced MRI features of pediatric intracranial tumors: posterior fossa and suprasellar tumors.

Abstract

In this article, we review the most common posterior fossa and suprasellar intracranial neoplasms in the pediatric population. We briefly discuss basic MRI concepts used in the initial evaluation of a pediatric brain tumor and then discuss sophisticated MRI techniques that give insight into the physiology and chemical makeup of these tumors to help the radiologist make a more specific diagnosis. Diagnosis and treatment of pediatric CNS tumors necessitate a multi-disciplinary approach and require expertise and diligence of all parties involved. Imaging is an essential component has evolved greatly over the past decade. We are becoming better at making a preoperative diagnosis of that tumor type, detecting recurrence, and guiding surgical management to avoid injury to vital brain structures.