Chiasmatic-hypothalamic masses in adults: a case series and review of the literature

J Neuroimaging. 2015 May-Jun;25(3):361-4. doi: 10.1111/jon.12132. Epub 2014 Jul 4.

Abstract

Chiasmatic-hypothalamic masses are commonly seen in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 and often demonstrate a benign clinical course. These masses are, however, rare in adults and require tissue sampling for diagnosis. Here, we present four cases of chiasmatic-hypothalamic masses in adults with pathologically proven diagnoses. We also provide a review of the literature and propose a limited differential in this age group.

Keywords: Magnetic resonance imaging; glioma; hypothalamus; optic chiasm.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Glioma / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Hypothalamus / pathology*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Optic Chiasm / pathology*
  • Optic Nerve Neoplasms / pathology*