Table 3 MRI findings of neoplasms involving the brachial plexus
Classifications | Schwannoma(n = 45) | Neurofibroma(n = 14) | Metastatic tumor(n = 10) | Astrocytoma(n = 1) | Malignant tumor of mediastinum(n = 1) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Size(cm) | 3.6 ± 1.8 | 5.6 ± 2.9 | 5.7 ± 2.0 | 6.5 | 10.3 |
Form | Regular | Regular | Regular | Regular | Irregular |
Boundary | Clear | Clear | Clear | Clear | Unclear |
T1WI | Slightly hypointense | Slightly hypointense | Slightly hypointense | Hybrid high signal | Slightly hypointense |
T2WI | Slightly hyperintense | Slightly hyperintense | Slightly hyperintense | Hybrid high signal | Slightly hyperintense |
3D-STIR-SPACE | Slightly hyperintense | Slightly hyperintense | Slightly hyperintense | Hybrid high signal | Slightly hyperintense |
Signal | Inhomogeneous | Inhomogeneous | Homogeneous | Inhomogeneous | Inhomogeneous |
Envelope | 45 | No | No | No | No |
Cystic degenerate hemorrhage | 7/45 | No | No | No | Yes |
Enhancement pattern | Inhomogeneous | Inhomogeneous | Homogeneous | No enhancement | Inhomogeneous |
Peripheral edema | No | No | No | No | Yes |
Relationship with brachial plexus | Eccentric embedding | Wrapping | Push | Infiltration | Infiltration |
Relationship with vascular | Push or soak | Push | Push | Push | Adhesion |