Sherelle Lea Laifer-Narin MD, Abstract Co-Author: Nothing to Disclose

Frank Hao MD, Presenter: Nothing to Disclose

The purpose of this exhibit is to review normal cerebellar development and anatomy.  Knowledge of normal anatomy and landmarks will assist in identifying cerebellar abnormalities and pathology.  The reader should be familiarized with pathology indicative of both good and poor prognoses. 

Background:   Fetal MRI has greatly improved analysis and diagnosis of fetal cerebral and cerebellar anatomy and pathology. Cerebellar abnormalities can be divided into disorders of development, presenting with either a large posterior fossa, or with a normal or small posterior fossa, and destructive disorders. The spectrum of cerebellar abnormalities will be reviewed. Differential diagnosis: Disorders presenting with a large posterior fossa include the Dandy-Walker malformation, mega cistern magna, posterior fossa arachnoid cyst, and Blake’s pouch cyst. Disorders presenting with a normal or small posterior fossa include the Dandy-Walker variant, cerebellar hypoplasia/agenesis, and rhombencephalosynapsis. Destructive disorders include cerebellar hemorrhage and infarct.   Summary: Many diverse cerebellar abnormalities can occur. Precise evaluation and delineation of cerebellar abnormalities can be accomplished with the use of MRI, confirming or negating ultrasound diagnoses. This allows for more accurate prognostication and genetic counseling.

http://abstract.rsna.org/uploads/2014/14016235/14016235_4qbf.pdf

Laifer-Narin, S, Hao, F, MRI of the Fetal Cerebellum and Posterior Fossa — Spectrum of Abnormalities .  Radiological Society of North America 2014 Scientific Assembly and Annual Meeting, - ,Chicago IL. http://archive.rsna.org/2014/14016235.html