DYSEMBRYOPLASTIC NEUROEPITHELIAL TUMOR - REPORT OF 3 CASES

BACKGROUND Dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor (DNT) is one of the mixed neuronal-glial tumors that should be differentiated from low-gra de gliomas. The recognition and correct diagnosis of DNT is important because this tumor is curable by excision. METHODS We report three cas es of histologically proven DNTs with various image studies performed preoperatively and describe characteristic findings of them, as well a s those of previous reports. RESULTS In our three cases, computed tomo graphy (CT) showed a well-defined, nonenhancing hypodense area. Magnet ic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated a cortical mass of hypointensi ty on T-1- and of marked hyperintensity on T-2-weighted images. I-123- IMP or Tc-99m-HMPAO single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) images showed marked hypoperfusion of the lesion. ThalIium-SPECT show ed no uptake. CONCLUSIONS I-123-IMP, Tc99m-HMPAO, and ThaIlium-SPECT i mages, as well as CT and MRI, may be helpful in distinguishing DNT fro m low-grade gliomas.