Abstract：Objective: To discuss MR characteristic appearance of rare primary tumors in vertebral canal, in order to improve the recognition of these tumors. Materials and Methods: Twelve patients with rare tumors in vertebral canal confirmed by operation and pathologic examination from 2001～2006 were analysed retrospectively. Results: This group included 4 cases of cavernous hemangioma. The mass showed hyperintensity on T2WI. One case was accompanied by hemangiomas of the vertebral body. Lymphoma 4 cases, two cases isointense on T1WI and hyperintense on T2WI. Two cases isointense on T1WI and hyperintense on T2WI. Two cases had spine and spinal accessory part destroyed. Angiolipomas three cases. Heterogeneous low and spot high signal intensity on T1WI. Heterogeneous high signal intensity on T2WI. Two cases had flow void signs within the lesion. Primary neuroectodermal tumor(PNET) one case, It showed clamp shape encircled the adjacent spinal cord. Isointense on T1WI and T2WI. All the above cases showed significant enhancement. Conclusion: MRI is the best method for orientation and specific diagnosis of rare primary tumor in the vertebral canal. It’s the most reliable examination before operation at present, it can display the relationship of tumor with adjacent structure. But correct diagnosis depends on clinical and pathological results.
2007, Vol. 18 
