Magnetic Resonance Imaging pattern of congenital brain anomalies in the neurosurgery department of a teaching hospital in Nigeria: An initial experience

Context: Congenital brain anomalies are of diverse types however few are seen in clinical practice. They are associated with high morbidity and mortality; prompt diagnosis and management aid in mitigating some of their adverse effects. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is ideal for imaging these conditions, especially in pediatric cases due to its lack of ionizing radiation and excellent soft-tissue delineation. Not much literature exists for Nigeria due to challenges with statistics and record keeping. Aim: The aim of this study is to document the common congenital brain anomalies encountered using MRI in our environment. Settings and Design: A 5-year retrospective study of all pediatric brain MRI conducted and reviewed in Lagos University Teaching Hospital. 73 pediatric brain MRI scans were reviewed. Materials and Methods: Morphologic evaluation of all pediatric brain MRI conducted in the last 5 years (March 2012–February 2016) was reviewed, retrospectively, by three independent radiologists. Clinical presentations were also documented. Statistical Analysis Used: Descriptive statistics was done using SPSS: PASW Statistics for Windows, Version 18.0 Results: Seventy-three pediatric brain MRI scans were conducted in the last 5 years with congenital brain anomalies seen in 19 (26.0%) of the cases. Their ages ranged from 3 months to 17 years with a mean age of 6.7 ± 6.1 years. There were 9 (47.4%) males and 10 (52.6%) females. The common anomalies are congenital hydrocephalus 7 (35%), of which aqueductal stenosis was 6 (32%), arteriovenous malformations 3 (16%), cerebral atrophy 3 (16%), and arachnoid cysts 2 (11%). Predominant clinical features were delayed developmental milestones, macrocephaly, seizures, headaches, and vomiting. Conclusion: The common congenital brain anomalies in our environment are congenital hydrocephalus, aqueductal stenosis, arteriovenous malformations, cerebral atrophy and arachnoid cysts. MRI is useful in evaluating these anomalies; early diagnosis and prompt intervention can be offered to mitigate adverse effects.