Imaging mimics of primary malignant tumors of the central nervous system (CNS).

Imaging has become a central part of the evaluation of lesions of the central nervous system. Despite patterns of the appearances of several types of central nervous system malignancies and improving resolution of imaging techniques, there are other processes that can display similar characteristics. Time and again, vascular, inflammatory, and vascular lesions will mimic a neoplastic process, requiring tissue diagnosis.

Clinical and prognostic features of adult patients with gangliogliomas.

Background: Gangliogliomas (GGs) represent <1% of primary brain tumors in adults. Little is known regarding prognostic features, clinical characteristics, or the impact of treatment on patient outcomes.

Methods: Our neuro-oncology longitudinal database was screened for patients with GG from 1992 to 2012.

Herpes myelitis after thoracic spine surgery.

Herpes simplex or herpes zoster reactivation after spinal surgery is rarely reported. This case report and review of the literature describes patients in whom this reactivation occurs to clarify the diagnosis and management. In addition to reporting their case, the authors reviewed case reports and series published between 1980 and 2012 found through a PubMed search.