Practical Tips for MR Imaging of Perineural Tumor Spread

Magn Reson Imaging Clin N Am. 2018 Feb;26(1):85-100. doi: 10.1016/j.mric.2017.08.006. Epub 2017 Oct 21.

Abstract

Perineural tumor spread (PNS) substantially alters a patient's prognosis and treatment plan. Therefore, it is critical that the radiologists are familiar with the course of cranial nerves commonly affected by PNS and the neuronal connections to appropriately map the extent of PNS. Limited involvement of a nerve by PNS might be resectable, whereas advanced PNS may require radiation therapy.

Keywords: Adenoid cystic carcinoma; Auriculotemporal nerve; Facial nerve; Greater superficial petrosal nerve; MR imaging; Perineural invasion; Perineural involvement; Perineural tumor spread; Trigeminal nerve.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cranial Nerve Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Cranial Nerve Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Neoplasm Invasiveness