Imaging of fetal brain tumors

Pediatr Radiol. 2020 Dec;50(13):1959-1973. doi: 10.1007/s00247-020-04777-z. Epub 2020 Nov 30.

Abstract

Congenital brain tumors, defined as those diagnosed prenatally or within the first 2 months of age, represent less than 2% of pediatric brain tumors. Their location, prevalence and pathophysiology differ from those of tumors that develop later in life. Imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosis, tumor characterization and treatment planning. The most common lesions diagnosed in utero are teratomas, followed by gliomas, choroid plexus papillomas and craniopharyngiomas. In this review, we summarize the pathogenesis, diagnosis, management and prognosis of the most frequent fetal brain tumors.

Keywords: Brain; Congenital; Fetus; Magnetic resonance imaging; Tumor; Ultrasonography.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms* / diagnostic imaging
  • Child
  • Female
  • Fetus
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms, Germ Cell and Embryonal*
  • Pregnancy
  • Teratoma*
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal