MR imaging findings in neurofibromatosis type 2

This paper reports on neurofibromatosis 2(NF-2) (bilateral neurofibromatosis) that is an entity distinct from NF-1 (von Recklinghausen disease). While cranial MR findings have been described in these groups, there are no reports of the spinal findings in NF-2 separate from NF-1. Spinal MR findings in six NF-2 and six NF-1 patients were retrospectively reviewed. Sagittal T1-weighted images were obtained of the cervical (n = 10), thoracic (n = 9), and lumbar spine (n = 8) before and after administration of Gd-DTPA (0.1 mmol/kg). All NF-2 patients had enhancing intradural, extramedullary lesions (n = 5-35), consistent with neurofibromas or meningiomas. Three of six patients had enhancing intramedullary (IM) lesions, two of which were surgically confirmed as ependymomas