To investigate the MRI features of different pathological types in adult and juvenile patients with craniopharyngioma, highlighting the clinical significance of these features.
Key Findings:
Juvenile group had a higher proportion of adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) at 85.0% compared to 56.3% in adults (P = 0.024).
Tumors in juveniles were more frequently located in the intrasellar/suprasellar region (80%) versus adults (60.4%) (P<0.001).
Calcification was observed in 55.0% of juvenile tumors compared to 29.1% in adults (P = 0.044).
Mean age at onset was significantly lower for ACP (27 years) compared to squamous papillary craniopharyngioma (SPCP) (43 years) (P<0.001).
Cystic degeneration occurred in 95.5% of ACP and 83.3% of SPCP (P = 0.037).
Fluid-fluid levels or sediment were present in 20.5% of ACP, but absent in all SPCP (P = 0.022).
Interpretation:
Age at onset, pathological subtype, and MRI features of craniopharyngiomas are closely correlated, with distinct characteristics observed in juvenile versus adult patients, suggesting tailored approaches for diagnosis and treatment.
Limitations:
Retrospective design may introduce selection bias.
Limited sample size may affect generalizability of findings.
Potential confounding factors in retrospective studies.
Conclusion:
MRI characteristics differ significantly between juvenile and adult craniopharyngiomas, with implications for preoperative differentiation and understanding of tumor behavior.
