MRI findings in meningeal cysts of the vertebral column

The aim of this study was to demonstrate the MRI findings and to emphasise the contribution of MRI to the diagnosis of this rare pathology. MRI findings were evaluated according to a new classification that divides MCs into extradural cysts without (type 1) or with (type 2) spinal nerve root fibres and intradural cysts (type 3). Because of its high contrast resolution MRI can distinguish the three types of MC. The use of the different levels of signal intensity of the cyst and CSF in T2-weighted images to distinguish communicating from non-communicating MCs is illustrated. This diagnostic sign exploitats the signal loss due to flow phenomena of CSF pulsations on ungated sequences to reveal the communication of the MC with the SAS. We recommend MRI as the most sensitive and specific modality for the study of MCs. (orig.)