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Patients with perinatal hypoxia (PH) and drug-refractory epilepsy (DRE) often have bilateral parieto-occipital gliosis. Surgical management of such patients is a dilemma.To identify preoperative determinants for unilateral disconnection vs callosotomy, and analyze the surgical outcome in such patients.This was a retrospective analysis of patients with DRE and history of PH, with MRI abnormalities restricted to bilateral posterior quadrants. Preoperative semiology, epilepsy duration and seizure frequency were recorded. Based on the concordance between the results of non-invasive tests, patients underwent either posterior quadrant disconnection (PQD) or corpus callosotomy (CC). Preoperative variables were analyzed and corelated to the postoperative seizure freedom.Fourteen patients were identified, 6 underwent PQD and 8 underwent CC. At follow up of 39.17 ± 23.75 months, 66.66% of patients (4/6) in the PQD subgroup had an ILAE Class I outcome. While none in the CC group attained seizure freedom, 87.5% (7/8) had more than 50% reduction in seizure frequency (follow up: 42 ± 27.31 months). Patients with a poor outcome had significantly greater seizure frequency (P = 0.05) and history of drop attacks (P = 0.04) in both the groups. Magnetoencephalography (MEG) accurately localized the epileptogenic zone in all of the patients with good outcome (P = 0.015). Concordance with single photon emission tomography (SPECT) was also a predictor of favorable outcome (P = 0.041).A history of drop attacks with high seizure frequency is associated with poor postoperative seizure outcome. Unilateral PQD is feasible and leads to superior seizure-free outcomes, even in cases with widespread and bilateral imaging and electrical abnormalities, provided the other preoperative investigations are concordant in localizing the epileptogenic zone.

An anomalous common trunk giving rise to bilateral intercostal arteries at multiple levels is exceedingly rare and its association with spinal filar AVF and low-lying cord has not been reported so far. Here, we report this uncommon anatomical variation in a 60-year-old male who presented with paraplegia and on imaging found to have low-lying spinal cord with filar AVF and venous congestive myelopathy and discuss its embryological basis and associated malformations. Although rare, interventional radiologists should be aware of this entity, as these trunks may be a major source of bleeding in patients with hemoptysis, and also may be involved in vital spinal cord supply.

Hemangioblastomas (HMB) are extensively vascularized and benign neoplasms that are diagnosed predominantly in adults. The solid type of HMB is technically challenging to operate. The piecemeal resection of the tumor has been shown to have devastating intraoperative complications. Therefore, en-bloc tumor resection was shown to be the safest procedure to reduce the risk of intraoperative bleeding and facilitate the removal of large solid tumors. Unfortunately, most of these tumours are also not amenable for embolization, as they are fed by multiple pial vessels. However, the large arterial feeders may be embolized.This video abstract presents a case of en-bloc resection of a giant solid type of Vermian HMB.A 38-year-old male patient presented with headache and vomiting for 1 year, imbalance during walking for 6 months, and hoarseness of voice for 2 months. He underwent a CSF diversion procedure in another hospital and was referred to our center for definitive surgery. Contrast-enhanced MRI showed a large heterogeneously enhancing solid lesion of size 46 × 33 × 40 mmThe patient had an uneventful recovery in the postoperative period.The safest approach in the resection of giant solid HMB involves proper preoperative planning and understanding the vascular pattern of the lesion, wide exposure, circumferential dissection, and the en-bloc delivery of the tumor.

Background: Hemispheric disconnection represents a challenging and major epilepsy surgical procedure. This procedure in experienced hands offers excellent results in terms of seizure outcomes, especially for hemispheric pathologies such as Rasmussen's encephalitis, hemispheric dysplasias, hemimegalencephaly. The technique of hemispherotomy has witnessed various modifications over the years, beginning from anatomical hemispherectomy to the current era of minimally invasive functional hemispheric disconnections. Objective: This study aimed to describe the technique of performing endoscopic vertical hemispherotomy using interhemispheric corridor developed by the senior author. Materials and Methods: A 12-year-old girl with seizure onset at the age of 10 years presented with an aura of fear and nausea followed by tonic deviation of eyes to the right and blinking with speech arrest. There were tonic–clonic movements of the right-sided limbs along with ictal spitting and occasional deviation of the angle of mouth to the right. The patient had loss of awareness for the event along with postictal confusion lasting few minutes. Results: Video electroencephalography (VEEG) revealed left parietocentral and left temporal localization. Serial magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain over 3 years revealed progressive left hemispheric changes suggestive of Rasmussen's encephalitis. The patient underwent left-sided endoscopic hemispherotomy. At 2 years follow-up, the patient is seizure-free (ILAE [International League Against Epilepsy] Class 1). Conclusion: Endoscopic hemispherotomy using the interhemispheric approach is an elegant, minimally invasive, reproducible, safe, and efficacious technique.

Background Arterial pseudoaneurysms of the neck are rarely reported in the pediatric population and no dedicated large series are available. Trauma and infection are the most common causes for these aneurysms, with congenital and collagen vascular disorders being the less common causes. These lesions can be life threatening, especially when they present with bleeding or airway compromise. Methods We searched our radiology information system for all cases of pediatric neck aneurysm presented between June 2015 and May 2018. These cases were analyzed for clinicoepidemiologic variables, clinical presentation, imaging findings, management, and follow-up. Results Six children were included in the study (male/female ratio, 5:1), with a mean age of 7.8 years (range, 2.5–15 years). Four presented acutely with either bleeding or rapidly enlarging neck swelling, whereas 2 presented with slowly increasing pulsatile swelling. One had a traumatic cause, 2 had infections, and 1 had infective cervical lymphadenitis complicated by iatrogenic injury whereas no definite causative mechanisms could be accounted for in 2 patients. Two of the children were managed by trapping of the aneurysm and 2 only by proximal parent vessel occlusion. The other 2 children were treated with stent graft deployment across the aneurysm neck to reconstruct the parent vessel. All the patients were doing well during the follow-up period (mean, 14.8 months). Conclusions Endovascular means of treatment for pediatric neck aneurysms is relatively simple and safe. Although parent vessel sacrifice is the gold-standard management, vessel-preserving strategies can be tried in select cases with favorable anatomy.

Intracranial dermoid and epidermoid cysts are usually considered to be two different entities in the radiological and surgical literature. Epidermoid cysts are classically off midline in location, isointense to cerebrospinal fluid on T1 and T2-weighted images and have restricted diffusion, whereas dermoid cysts are classically midline in location, have T1-hyperintense regions due to the presence of fat and show facilitated diffusion. We report a case of radiological epidermoid cyst in baseline imaging, which evolved into a radiological dermoid cyst over time, and explain this unique occurrence with a review of the embryology and histopathogenesis of these cysts.

Background and Purpose: Differentiating between neurocysticercosis (NCC) and neurotuberculosis has serious therapeutic implications and this distinction relies heavily on neuroimaging. Few case reports discuss the conglomeration of ring-enhancing lesions (RELs) in patients with solitary NCC. The aim of our study is to describe the imaging findings of conglomerate RELs in a cohort of patients with solitary NCC, emphasizing the frequency of conglomeration. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 100 patients with solitary NCC. Two neuroradiologists analyzed contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) images regarding morphology, enhancement pattern, location, number of lesions, and degree of perilesional edema. The solitary lesions were classified as solitary discrete RELs (SD-RELs) when a well-defined lesion was seen and solitary conglomerate RELs (SC-RELs) when two or more ring lesions or ring/rings plus disc lesions were present contiguously. Follow-up CT scans were evaluated for the resolution of lesions and surrounding edema. Results: Out of 100 patients, 42 were SD-RELs and 58 were SC-RELs. No statistically significant difference was found between both groups in terms of age of presentation, clinical presentation, lesion size and location, and degree of perilesional edema. Larger lesions (>10 mm) were more likely to show scolex and were associated with greater degree of edema in both subgroups. During follow-up, 13 patients had new lesions (SD-RELs-5, SC-RELs-8). In SD-RELs, follow-up lesions were in the same location in four patients and new location in one; and in SC-RELs, lesions were in the same location in seven and in new location in one case. Conclusion: Conglomeration of RELs is a common finding in patients with solitary NCC.

Basilar artery fenestration aneurysms are very rare and endovascular management of large and complex aneurysms is extremely challenging. Most of these type of cases are managed with stent assisted coiling, dual flow diverters (FD) and single FD with additional coiling of aneurysm and occlusion of one of the vertebral artery. Here, we report a case of large complex basilar artery fenestration aneurysm successfully treated with single FD using novel technique called “crossing flow diverter technique” without any additional coiling of aneurysm or occlusion of vertebral artery. Using this technique cost of procedure and procedural complexity inherent with other above mentioned techniques can be significantly reduced.

Background: Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is often difficult because of distinct and subjective clinical features, especially in the early stage. FOXO3a protein present in the cognitive centre of brain. FOXO3a can be a potential novel target against AD. Method: We quantified serum FOXO3a by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and compare with TauPET between of AD, Mild Cognitive impairment (MCI) patients and Geriatric Control (GC). Finding: Serum FOXO3a was significantly lower in AD compare to MCI and GC. However, Tau was higher in AD both in serum and in PET scan. Serum pTau was significantly over-expressed in AD compare to other groups. Interpretation: Serum FOXO3a could significantly differentiate AD vs MCI, MCI vs GC and AD vs GC. However, Tau protein could only differentiate AD vs GC but not MCI vs GC. Serum FOXO3a may serve as novel blood marker for early detection for AD and target for therapeutic intervention. Funding Statement: All India Institute of Medical Sciences New Delhi, provided funds for procurement of equipment and consumables, Indian Council of Medical Research for providing the fellowship to Rashmita Pradhan. Declaration of Interests: Authors declare no conflict of interest. Ethics Approval Statement: All India Institute of Medical Sciences Ethics Committee (AIIMS) approved the study protocol (IESC/T28/03.01.2014).

Pediatric posterior circulation aneurysms are rare, complex, poorly understood lesions on which only limited literature is currently available. We report our 12-year experience of managing this condition to enhance knowledge of this rare entity.Patients18 years old with posterior circulation aneurysms managed at our institution from January 2005 to April 2017 were included. Demographic, clinical, radiologic and management details were retrieved from hospital records and characteristics of the aneurysms and treatment were analyzed.During this period, 20 pediatric patients (male-to-female ratio 15:6; mean age, 13.1 years) with posterior circulation aneurysms were treated. Most of the patients (75%) presented with subarachnoid hemorrhage. The most common location was the vertebrobasilar junction and vertebral artery (31.81%) followed by the basilar artery and the posterior cerebral artery (27.72% each). Dissecting (81.8%) and large (63.63%) aneurysms were the most common types noted. Of the15 patients with 22 aneurysms treated, 13 underwent endovascular management (parent vessel sacrifice in 8 aneurysms and parent vessel preservation in 5 aneurysms), 1 patient underwent surgery, and 1 patient received medical management for central nervous system tuberculosis. During follow-up, 1 patient had recurrence of aneurysm, and 1 patient died after discharge from the hospital. Overall good outcome was recorded in 90% of patients (Glasgow Outcome Scale score 4-5).Vertebrobasilar junction and vertebral artery was the most common location for posterior circulation aneurysms and most were dissecting aneurysms. Endovascular treatment was the mainstay of management. Overall good outcome was observed at long-term follow-up.

Introduction: Cerebral vasospasm following aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is a major cause of mortality and morbidity. Despite various treatment modalities, the optimal management of vasospasm remains elusive. In this regard; we undertook a prospective, randomized controlled study to evaluate the effectiveness of lumbar cerebrospinal fluid drainage (LCSFD) for prevention of cerebral vasospasm and its sequelae. Materials and Methods: Patients with aneurysmal SAH who met the inclusion criteria were randomized into two groups – Group I (30 patients) underwent LCSFD whereas Group II (30 patients) did not undergo LCSFD. All patients underwent aneurysmal clipping. Both the groups received standard neurosurgical treatment except for LCSFD. The outcome was measured in terms of (1) clinically evident vasospasm; (2) vasospasm-related cerebral infarction; (3) condition of the patient at the time of discharge; and (4) Glasgow outcome score (GOS) at 1- and 3-month follow-up. Results: LCSFD conferred a statistically significant benefit reducing the incidence of clinical vasospasm from 63% (in non-LCSFD group) to 30% (in LCSFD group) (P = 0.01) and incidence of vasospasm-related cerebral infarction from 53% (in non-LCSFD group) to 20% (in LCSFD group) (P = 0.007). Incidence of vasospasm was quantitatively lower in LCSFD group across all Hunt and Hess grades; however, it was statistically significant in SAH Grade III (P = 0.008). Mean duration of hospital stay was slightly lower in LCSFD group compared to non-LCSFD group; however, it did not reach statistical significance. A higher incidence of meningitis in LCSFD group was not statistically significant. A higher GOS was observed in LCSFD group at 1- and 3-month follow-up as compared to non-LCSFD group. Conclusion: Drainage of CSF through a lumbar drain following aneurysmal SAH caused a statistically significant reduction in the incidence of clinical and radiological vasospasm and its sequelae. It also shortens the overall duration of hospital stay and improves the outcome as evidenced by a better GOS score at 1- and 3-month follow-up. The results of this prospective, randomized study establish the efficacy of LCSFD in prevention of vasospasm following aneurysmal SAH.

Pediatric posterior-circulation aneurysms are uncommon, difficult-to-treat lesions associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Infections and trauma are important risk factors in children. Here, we present a 10-year-old boy with a lower respiratory tract infection, rapidly progressive right-neck swelling, and weakness of the right upper limb. Imaging revealed a partially thrombosed right vertebral-artery pseudoaneurysm with multiple cavitory lung lesions. Subsequent laboratory work-up showed underlying primary immunodeficiency disorder (chronic granulomatous disease). The aneurysm was successfully managed by parent-artery occlusion. The child made a complete recovery without neurological sequelae.

Posterior condylar canal dural arteriovenous fistula (PCC dAVF) is a rare entity with only three cases having been reported so far in the English literature. We describe the clinical presentation, imaging, and endovascular management of an elderly man with left PCC dAVF presenting with subarachnoid haemorrhage (SAH). Endovascular management of such cases requires thorough understanding of the vascular anatomy around the craniovertebral junction (CVJ) and variable bridging vein draining patterns. The fistula in our case was fed by the posterior meningeal branch of the left vertebral artery and was draining through a dilated and tortuous medullary bridging vein into the antero-lateral pontomedullary venous system. Transarterial glue embolisation was performed with complete exclusion of the fistula and venous pouches. The patient developed intractable hiccough and left-sided facial pain on the second post-procedural day, and MRI showed focal diffusion restriction in the left dorso-lateral medulla. He recovered completely after a short course of steroids.

Background As the health systems around the world struggled to meet the challenges of COVID-19 pandemic, care of many non-COVID emergencies was affected. Aims The present study examined differences in the diagnosis, evaluation and management of stroke patients during a defined period in the ongoing pandemic in 2020 when compared to a similar epoch in year 2019. Methods The COVID stroke study group (CSSG) India, included 18 stroke centres spread across the country. Data was collected prospectively between February and July 2020 and retrospectively for the same period in 2019. Details of demographics, stroke evaluation, treatment, in-hospital and three months outcomes were collected and compared between these two time points. Results A total of 2549 patients were seen in both study periods; 1237 patients (48.53%) in 2019 and 1312 (51.47%) in 2020. Although the overall number of stroke patients and rates of thrombolysis were comparable, a significant decline was observed in the month of April 2020, during the initial period of the pandemic and lockdown. Endovascular treatment reduced significantly and longer door to needle and CT to needle times were observed in 2020. Although mortality was higher in 2020, proportion of patients with good outcome were similar in both the study periods. Conclusions Although stroke admissions and rates of thrombolysis were comparable, some work flow metrics were delayed, endovascular stroke treatment rates declined and mortality was higher during the pandemic study period. Reorganization of stroke treatment pathways during the pandemic has likely improved the stroke care delivery across the globe.

Fenestrations are rare but well-known arterial anatomic variations in which a segment of artery divides into two parallel channels that reunite distally. Although fenestrations as such are asymptomatic, they have gained clinical significance because of their association with aneurysms and other intracranial vascular pathologies. Here we present a 35-year-old woman with history of sudden severe occipital headache and vomiting. Imaging revealed a ruptured aneurysm in the distal posterior inferior cerebellar artery arising from one of the limbs of the fenestration. The aneurysm was successfully managed by coiling, and the patient made complete recovery without neurological sequelae.

Purpose Ictal motor phenomena play a crucial role in the localization of seizure focus in the management of refractory focal epilepsy. While the importance of unilateral automatisms is well established, little attention is paid to the contralateral relatively immobile limb. In cases where automatisms mimic clonic or dystonic movements and in the absence of previously well-established signs, unilateral relative ictal immobility (RII) is potentially useful as a lateralizing sign. This study was carried out to examine the lateralizing value of this sign and to define its characteristics among patients of refractory focal epilepsy. Methods VEEGs of 69 consecutive patients of refractory focal epilepsy who had undergone epilepsy surgery at our center over last four years were reviewed and analyzed for the presence of RII. Unilateral RII was defined as a paucity of movement in one limb lasting for at least 10s while the contralateral limb showed purposive or semi-purposive movements (in the absence of tonic or dystonic posturing or clonic movements in the involved limb). The findings were seen in the light of VEEG, radiological and nuclear imaging data, and with post-surgical outcome. Results Unilateral RII as a lateralizing sign was found in 24 of 69 patients (34.78%), consisting of both temporal and extra temporal epilepsy, with 100% concordance with VEEG and MRI data. All patients demonstrating this sign had a good post-surgical outcome. Conclusion RII, when well characterized is a frequent and reliable lateralizing sign in patients of refractory focal epilepsy.

Diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is often difficult because of distinct and subjective clinical features, especially in the early stage. FOXO3a protein present in the cognitive centre of brain in inferior temporal region and parahippocampus. FOXO3a can be a potential novel target against AD. AD, Mild Cognitive impairment (MCI) and Geriatric Control (GC) were recruited after diagnosis by clinical assessment, MRI, TauPET and FDG-PET. We have quantified serum FOXO3a by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and compare with TauPET between of AD, MCI patients and GC. Serum FOXO3A was significantly lower in AD (1.42 ± 0.09 ng/μl) compare to MCI (1.61 ± 0.14 ng/μl) and GC (1.89 ± 0.07 ng/μl). However, the Tau was higher in AD both in serum and also in PET scan. Serum pTau was significantly over-expressed in AD (0.176 ± 0.03 ng/μl), compare to other groups; MCI (0.16 ± 0.014 ng/μl) and GC (0.15 ± 0.024 ng/μl). Serum FOXO3A could significantly differentiate AD vs MCI, MCI vs GC and AD vs GC. However, Tau protein could only differentiate AD vs GC but not MCI vs GC. Serum FOXO3A may serve as novel blood marker for early detection for AD and target for therapeutic intervention.

Objective To objectively mark out abnormal areas of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and electrocorticography (ECoG) using neuronavigation so as to 1) enhance the accuracy of margins of the epileptogenic zone and 2) understand the relationships of all the three modalities with each other. Methods A prospective study was conducted of 37 patients with intractable epilepsy due to lesional, neocortical pathologies from noneloquent areas. Prior to surgery, fusion and transfer of MRI and PET images onto a neuronavigation system was performed. At surgery, this was correlated to intraoperative ECoG using the electrode as referential points. An objective score was created for every electrode point that was correlated with MRI and PET abnormality at the point. The extent of surgical resection was mapped out using these data. Results From a total of the data recorded from 1280 electrode points, 23.5% were located over the lesion. In addition, over the lesions, 93% of PET and 66% of ECoG points were abnormal. Over the perilesional areas, 43% of PET and 45% of ECoG points were abnormal. Using these data for surgery, both lesional and perileisonal areas were resected; 33/37 patients had good outcome (25 Engel I, 8 Engel II) (mean follow-up: 23.6 ± 3.2 months; range 18–31 months). Conclusion Multimodal imaging and ECoG using this method seems to provide a better objective localization of the epileptogenic foci.

Aneurysms are uncommon and challenging to manage. A retrospective study was designed to report 53 patients who are treated from June 2002 to June 2011. The mean age at presentation was 46.34 ± 13.67 years (males, 26). Clinical features included subarachnoid hemorrhage (median Hunt and Hess Grade II, n = 42), cranial nerve palsies (9), hydrocephalus (5), and incidentally diagnosed (5). Locations included superior cerebellar artery (3), posterior cerebral artery (2), basilar trunk (4), vertebral (8), anterior inferior cerebellar artery (AICA) (5), posterior inferior cerebellar artery (PICA) (13), vertebrobasilar junction (6), and basilar top (13). Management included both endovascular intervention (26) and surgery (19), and both (2). Five patients presented as poor grade and underwent only extraventricular drain placement while one patient had thrombosed aneurysm and was managed conservatively. Mortality was 26.4% (n = 14) and morbidity included vasospasm (10), meningitis (2), pseudomeningocele (2), pneumonitis (2), and myocardial infarction (1). Posterior circulation aneurysms are highly challenging. They require the multimodality approach, and decision regarding surgery or embolization has to be individualized.

Background: Cell transplantation is a ‘hype and hope’ in the current scenario. It is in the early stage of development with promises to restore function in chronic diseases. Mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) transplantation in stroke patients has shown significant improvement by reducing clinical and functional deficits. They are feasible and multipotent and have homing characteristics. This study evaluates the safety, feasibility and efficacy of autologous MSC transplantation in patients with chronic stroke using clinical scores and functional imaging (blood oxygen level-dependent and diffusion tensor imaging techniques). Methods: Twelve chronic stroke patients were recruited; inclusion criteria were stroke lasting 3 months to 1 year, motor strength of hand muscles of at least 2, and NIHSS of 4–15, and patients had to be conscious and able to comprehend. Fugl Meyer (FM), modified Barthel index (mBI), MRC, Ashworth tone grade scale scores and functional imaging scans were assessed at baseline, and after 8 and 24 weeks. Bone marrow was aspirated under aseptic conditions and expansion of MSC took 3 weeks with animal serum-free media (Stem Pro SFM). Six patients were administered a mean of 50–60 × 106 cells i.v. followed by 8 weeks of physiotherapy. Six patients served as controls. This was a non-randomized experimental controlled trial. Results: Clinical and radiological scanning was normal for the stem cell group patients. There was no mortality or cell-related adverse reaction. The laboratory tests on days 1, 3, 5 and 7 were also normal in the MSC group till the last follow-up. The FM and mBI showed a modest increase in the stem cell group compared to controls. There was an increased number of cluster activation of Brodmann areas BA 4 and BA 6 after stem cell infusion compared to controls, indicating neural plasticity. Conclusion: MSC therapy aiming to restore function in stroke is safe and feasible. Further randomized controlled trials are needed to evaluate its efficacy.

Purpose: To assess the outcome of a pediatric population operated for drug-resistant epilepsy from a large tertiary care center in India. Methods: Retrospectively: quality of life (QOL); prospectively: preoperative assessment included interictal EEG, MRI (as per epilepsy protocol), video-EEG. Ictal SPECT (with subtraction) and PET were performed when required. QOL scores were assessed using the HASS or SSQ for seizure severity, Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy (QOLCE) for QOL, and Child Behavior Check List (CBCL) for behavior. Results: 142 were operated from January 2000 to June 2011 by the senior author. 118 patients with at least 1 year of follow-up were included in the study. Mean age at surgery was 9.8 ± 4.3 years. In addition, 40 patients underwent QOL assessment prospectively both before and after surgery. Mean duration of epilepsy was 5.3 ± 3.3 years. A class I outcome (Engel’s) was seen in 79.5% patients, class II in 8.6%, class III in 10.7%, and class IV in 1 patient. As per surgical procedures, class I outcome in patients who underwent temporal resection, hemispherotomy and extratemporal resection was 76, 87 and 72%, respectively. QOL scores correlated with duration of seizures, epileptic encephalopathy and outcome of surgery, but not with side of surgery, age and sex. Conclusions: This study, the largest reported from India, has demonstrated satisfactory results for epilepsy surgery in children.

Medically intractable epilepsy (MIE) resulting from postinfectious etiologies requiring surgery have been uncommonly reported. A series of 28 cases are presented (hospital prevalence 5.7%). The mean duration of epilepsy prior to surgery was 8.2 +/- 2.1 years. The mean time of onset of epilepsy after central nervous system infection was 1.4 +/- 0.9 years (range 0-19 years). The pathologies included postpyogenic meningitic/encephalitic sequel (8), neurocysticercosis (6), tuberculomas/posttuberculous etiology (4), postpyogenic abscess of otogenic etiology (4), posttraumatic abscess-related gliosis (2), and gliosis of unknown infectious etiology (4) cases. Surgery included mesial temporal (11), lateral temporal (4), frontal (9), parietal (2) resections and hemispherotomy (1). Hippocampal sclerosis was seen in nine cases (4 neurocysticercosis) and this occurred in younger persons as compared to neocortical epilepsies. Good outcome (Engel class I and II) was seen in 23 of 28 cases (Engel class I in 17).

Seizures and psychosis coexist in a large number of patients with epilepsy, and a significant amount of research on their relationship has been published. There are several reports and reviews on postictal and interictal psychosis in patients with epilepsy. We describe three patients with refractory temporal lobe epilepsy, each of whom presented with a history of episodic psychosis that preceded almost all habitual seizures and, thus, served as a useful warning symptom. All three patients had intractable left complex partial seizures; two had right mesial temporal sclerosis, and the third had a gliotic area in the right frontotemporal region on MRI. This is the first report of psychosis preceding seizures. The literature on seizure anticipation, as well as on the complex relationship between seizures and psychosis, is also reviewed.

Objective Since it was first described, normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) and its treatment by means of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) shunting have been the focus of much investigation. Whatever be the cause of NPH, it has been hypothesized that in this disease there occurs decreased arterial expansion and an increased brain expansion leading to increased transmantle pressure. We cannot measure the latter, but fortunately the effect of these changes (increased peak flow velocity through the aqueduct) can be quantified with cine phase-contrast magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). This investigation was thus undertaken to characterize and measure CSF peak flow velocity at the level of the aqueduct, before and after lumbar CSF drainage, by means of a phase-contrast cine MRI and determine its role in selecting cases for shunt surgery. Patients and methods 37 patients with clinically suspected NPH were included in the study. Changes in the hyperdynamic peak CSF flow velocity with 50 ml lumbar CSF drainage (mimicking shunt) were evaluated in them for considering shunt surgery. Results 14 out of 15 patients who were recommended for shunt surgery, based on changes peak flow velocity after lumbar CSF drainage, improved after shunt surgery. None of the cases which were not recommended for shunt surgery, based on changes in CSF peak flow velocity after lumbar CSF drainage, improved after shunt surgery (2 out of 22 cases). Conclusion The study concluded that the phase-contrast MR imaging, done before and after CSF drainage, is a sensitive method to support the clinical diagnosis of normal pressure hydrocephalus, selecting patients of NPH who are likely to benefit from shunt surgery, and to select patients of NPH who are not likely to benefit from shunt surgery.

Background and purposeVein of Galen aneurysmal malformation (VGAM) is a rare developmental intracranial vascular malformation. We analyzed the clinical presentations, imaging findings, angioarchitecture, management options, and outcome in a demographically heterogeneous set of VGAM patients.MethodsWe retrospectively analyzed cases of VGAM from our departmental archive collected between 1988 and January 2015. Demographic, clinical, therapeutic, and follow-up details were obtained for each patient from the available records.ResultsWe identified 36 patients with VGAM including 6 neonates, 18 infants, 7 children aged 2–10 years, and 5 adults. Macrocrania was the commonest presenting feature. Type of fistulae was mural in 14 and choroidal in 18 patients while 4 had a thrombosed sac at presentation. In 3 cases the dilated venous sac had connection with the deep venous system. Bilateral jugular atresia and stenosis were seen in 9 and 6 patients, respectively. Giant venous sac (>4 cm) was significantly correlated with mural type (p=0.0001). Dural arterial recruitment was seen in 4 patients including 3 adults. Among the 23 patients treated by endovascular means, 14 had a good outcome, 5 had a poor outcome, and 4 died. A significant correlation was noted between jugular atresia and poor outcome (p=0.003).ConclusionsWe encountered a wide range of demographic, clinical, and angiographic features in VGAM. Mural type malformations were associated with giant venous sacs. Good outcome after embolization was seen in selected neonates and in most of the infants, children, and adults. Jugular atresia was significantly associated with poor outcome.

Background: The lateralising significance of unidirectional whole body turning in patients with complex partial seizures (CPS) arising from the temporal lobe was evaluated. Methods: A total of 330 patients undergoing long term video-EEG study were included. ‘‘Unidirectional whole body turning’’ was defined as rotation of the trunk, head, and limbs by .90˚ and lasting .10 s. EEG correlates, MRI, and SPECT findings were compared and outcome after surgery was noted for patients with follow up data for .1 year. Results: Unidirectional whole body turning was observed in 13 patients with a mean age of 18i8 years. Concordance of the side of whole body turning with the EEG focus and MRI findings was observed in 11 of the 13 patients (84.7%) and in 26 of 28 seizures (92.8%). The six patients who underwent temporal lobectomy or resection of lesion, opposite to the direction of body turning, had good seizure outcome. Conclusion: Unidirectional whole body turning is a new lateralising sign in temporal lobe CPS with good predictive value for epileptogenic focus contralateral to the direction of turning.

Case report: Paragangliomas of the orbit are extremely rare tumors. We report a well-documented case of orbital paraganglioma in a 45-year-old man who presented with proptosis and decreased vision. The patient underwent complete excision of the tumor with preservation of orbital structures. There was total regression of symptoms after surgery and vision was well maintained. Comments: Radiological and pathological features are described and differential diagnoses of this entity are discussed.

Ewing's sarcomas (ES) account for approximately 10% of primary malignant bone tumors. Primary Ewing's sarcoma of the skull is a very rare entity. We report a case of Ewing's sarcoma of the sphenoid bone in a 5-year-old boy. CT scan showed heterogeneously enhancing mass with associated spiculated new bone formation along the posterolateral wall of the orbit. Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging showed markedly heterogeneously signal intensity mass lesion containing areas of hemorrhage and fluid-fluid levels. Spiculated new bone formation and fluid-fluid levels had not been reported previously in skull Ewing's sarcomas and may be helpful features for preoperative diagnosis.

Majority of the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) tumors are acoustic neuromas, while bulk of the non-acoustic tumors are formed by meningiomas and epidermoid cysts. Primary paraganglioma is a rare tumor in this location, with only two such cases having been reported in the literature, till date. Recently, a case has been described wherein a paraganglioma was apparently arising as a primary lesion in the cerebellar hemisphere. We report another case of an intracranial paraganglioma of the CPA in a 40-year-old female, which did not have any vascular attachment but had focal cerebellar extension.

Most central neurocytomas (CN) and spinal neurocytomas (SN) have a bland well-differentiated histologic picture and uneventful clinical course. However, rare examples showing histologic atypia, recurrence and even CSF dissemination have been reported. Herein we report a case of recurrent spinal neurocytoma in a 24-year-old male who presented with a 2-month history of weakness and numbness of the left upper and lower limbs, and was previously operated at the same site 10 months ago. MRI revealed a contrast enhancing intramedullary mass involving C5-T1 region. Radiologic and operative impression at both surgeries was that of a glioma, possibly anaplastic. Histologic and immunohistochemical features in both resections were those of an atypical neurocytoma. The tumor showed rare mitoses, focal mild vascular proliferation in both specimens, and necrosis in the initial specimen. MIB1 labeling indices were 9 and 10%, respectively. Based on the analysis of this case and limited data from the literature, it is hypothesized that SN shows a histopathologic picture, immunoprofile and biologic behavior very similar to CN. However, the presence of histologic atypia and increased MIB1 index in SN appear to more closely correlate with tumor recurrence and a worse overall outcome, in part due to their location in the critical region of cervical spinal cord. Therefore, we hypothesize that SN with atypia requires a close clinical follow up. As in CN, radiation therapy is perhaps best reserved for atypical, progressive and recurrent SN.

Arachnoid cysts are benign developmental cysts occurring most commonly in the middle fossa. Posterior fossa arachnoid cysts are less common, with retroclival arachnoid cysts especially in the pediatric age group being rare. We present a case of a retroclival interpeduncular farachnoid cyst in a 10-year-old boy who presented with left-sided ptosis and episodes of hysterical breathlessness. The surgical treatment involved endoscopic assisted microsurgical excision of the cyst and the child made an uneventful and complete recovery with complete cessation of breathlessness. The clinical presentation, etiopathogenesis, imaging characteristics and treatment modalities are discussed and the relevant literature reviewed.

Study design A case report of rheumatoid arthritis involving cervical spine, who presented with multiple posterior circulation infarcts, and pertinent literature review are presented. Objective To describe a rare positional occlusion/stasis of vertebral arteries, which resolved following application of cervical traction. The likely mechanism of above findings is proposed. Summary of background data The mechanism of vertebrobasilar insufficiency with changes in head position in patients with rheumatoid arthritis can result from a number of causes; however, bilateral compromise of vertebral arteries during head extension had been described only once. There is no report of vertebral artery angiogram in any individual following application of traction and relief of compromise in extension. Methods A 45-year-old man had rheumatoid arthritis for the last 10 years and presented with symptoms of posterior circulation infarcts. Cervical spine radiographs revealed "mobile" atlantoaxial dislocation and atlantoaxial impaction. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed odontoid erosions, lateral masses destruction, atlantoaxial dislocation, and atlantoaxial impaction. Angiogram showed occlusion of the left vertebral artery and transient stasis of the right vertebral artery distal to foramen transversarium of C2 vertebra in extension position. The left vertebral artery had narrowing in the same segment in the neutral position. Following traction, repeat angiogram showed no occlusion or narrowing of either vertebral artery in any position. Transoral odontoidectomy and occipitocervical fusion were performed. Results The patient had no fresh deficits following surgery. Conclusions We described a rare case of positional occlusion/stasis of vertebral arteries associated with rheumatoid arthritis, in which angiography following cervical traction showed complete resolution.

Study design A case report of bipartite atlas associated with os odontoideum and review of the pertinent literature are presented. Objective To illustrate an unusual association of bipartite atlas and os odontoideum and explain the embryological basis. Summary of background data To the authors' knowledge, only one case of bipartite atlas with os odontoideum had been reported previously. Most of the previously reported cases of bipartite atlas are asymptomatic. Methods A 16-year-old boy presented with a 2-month history of weakness and numbness of all four limbs after sustaining a minor head trauma. Radiographs of cervical spine revealed aplasia of anterior arch of atlas, ventral displacement of C1 over C2 on flexion, which reduced on extension. CT scan showed anterior arch aplasia, posterior arch midline defect, and os odontoideum, which had a small projection on the anterior surface at the level of anterior arch. MRI demonstrated increased cord signal at C1-C2 levels on T2-weighted image. Transoral odontoidectomy and posterior fixation of occiput with C2-C3 spinous processes was performed. Results The patient had significant improvement over next 3 months. Conclusions We described a rare association of an anterior arch aplasia, posterior arch defect and os odontoideum. The natural history of patients with os odontoideum suggests that these people have a potentially precarious existence.