Prenatal diagnosis of capillary telangiectasia of the cerebellum--ultrasound and MRI features

Abstract

Objective: To report three cases of capillary telangiectasia (CT) of the cerebellum revealed as focal cerebellar lesions.

Methods: Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were performed in all cases in the prenatal period. Prenatal imaging findings were compared with either post-mortem examination (case 1) or post-natal MRI (cases 2 & 3).

Results: A discrepancy between a hyperechoic lesion without any mass effect on sonogram and normal T1 and T2 spin-echo fetal magnetic resonance images was found in all cases. The diagnosis of CT was made on post-mortem examination in case 1. Prenatal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging findings were suggestive of the diagnosis in cases 2 and 3. In both cases, the pregnancy was managed conservatively and the diagnosis of CT was documented on post-natal MRI after gadolinium injection.

Conclusion: The diagnosis of CT of the cerebellum was strongly suggested in these three cases in the prenatal period by the combination of ultrasound and fetal MRI findings. In the vast majority of cases, CT has a benign clinical course and complication with haemorrhage appears to be exceedingly rare. This fact should be taken into account in the prenatal counselling.