Imaging of recurrent esthesioneuroblastoma

Esthesioneuroblastoma is an uncommon neoplasm arising from the olfactory ep ithelium and characterized by frequent local recurrence. The purpose of thi s study was to determine the role of CT and MRI in the diagnosis of recurre nt esthesioneuroblastoma. A total of 14 histologically confirmed recurrent esthesioneuroblastomas referred to our institution between 1986 and 1998 wa s retrospectively reviewed. All patients underwent both CT and MRI. The tum our recurrences displayed a variety of imaging characteristics and aggressi veness. They were typically expansile and destructive in their growth patte rns. Erosion of the cribriform plate and involvement of the anterior crania l fossa were common findings. The CT and MRI appearances of recurrent esthe sioneuroblastoma do not differ significantly from tumours imaged at initial presentation. Patients should receive close follow-ups and CT/MRI examinat ions for several years beyond diagnosis, as early diagnosis of recurrent di sease predicts survival.