Hypertensive nonobstructive hydrocephalus as main magnetic resonance imaging feature in a dog with disseminated choroid plexus carcinomatosis

Abstract

Abstract Obstructive or nonobstructive hypertensive hydrocephalus is reported in choroid plexus tumors. Choroid plexus tumors typically present as T2‐weighted hyperintense intraventricular masses with occasional cerebrospinal fluid‐drop metastasis. Acquired neoplastic nonobstructive hydrocephalus without visible mass lesion in magnetic resonance imaging is not reported in dogs. A 4.5‐year‐old Rhodesian Ridgeback presented with reduced mental status, unilaterally absent pupillary light reflex, and neck pain. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a nonobstructive hydrocephalus and widened lumbar subarachnoid space with no evidence of a primary mass lesion. Postmortem examination confirmed a disseminated choroid plexus tumor affecting the ependyma and choroid plexi of all ventricles and the cerebral and lumbar subarachnoid space. Disseminated choroid plexus carcinomatosis should be considered as a possible cause of hypertensive hydrocephalus even in absence of a primary mass.

Keywords

• brain imaging
• canine
• disseminated carcinoma
• intracranial neoplasia
• magnetic resonance imaging
• neuroimaging