Bright rim sign (DNET)

Last revised by Rohit Sharma on 19 Nov 2024

The bright rim sign, also known as the hyperintense ring sign, is an MRI sign described most frequently in dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumours (DNET) but is also seen in some other tumours.

Although the sign is most associated with DNETs, and should probably be reserved in cases where DNET is the suspected diagnosis, it is also seen in other pathologies such as myxoid glioneuronal tumours 3.

It is also visually equivalent to T2/FLAIR mismatch sign seen in some astrocytomas, IDH-mutant.

On pathologic examination, this bright rim sign corresponds to glioneuronal elements loosely packed at the margin of the tumour surrounding an area so replete with fluid that it partially suppresses on FLAIR 1.

It is described as a well-defined rim of high signal around the DNET on FLAIR sequences. This FLAIR hyperintense ring, whether complete or incomplete, is fairly sensitive and specific for DNET 2. On postoperative imaging, this sign may be a helpful clue for residual tumour or tumour recurrence 2.

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