Germ cell tumors of the central nervous system originating from non-pinealregions: CT and MR features

CT and MR findings were retrospectively reviewed in 12 patients with germ c ell tumors originating from the non-pineal regions. Cystic or necrotic comp onents were seen in 6 patients. Of 4 germinomas, 2 showed mixed density on the CT. The MR signal intensity of the tumor was non-specific. Of 8 germino mas, 4 were inhomogeneously enhanced on postcontrast CT and T1-weighted MR images. CT and MR features of germinomas originating from non-pineal region s frequently differ from those of germinomas originating from the pineal re gion. The mass of the tumor often appeared cystic and inhomogeneously enhan ced following contrast infusion. (C) 2000 Published by Elsevier Science Ltd . All rights reserved.