Dural tail
The dural tail sign occurs as a result of thickening of the dura and, in the majority of cases, is associated with meningioma formation. It was initially thought to result from direct invasion of the dura, however subsequent studies demonstrated it to be more a reactive process. As experience grew, it became increasingly noted to be present in other conditions, although without the same regularity.
- meningiomas: 60 - 72% have a tail.
- pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA)
It has also been reported with
- chloroma
- primary CNS lymphoma
- sarcoidosis
- vestibular schwannoma
- metastatic tumours
- syphilitic gumma
- medulloblastoma
Etymology
First described in 1989 by Wilms et al as thickening of the dura surrounding meningiomas.
