IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Pseudoresponse to bevacizumab in high grade glioma

Case contributed by Maciej Debowski
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Initially presented with headache and visual symptoms. Underwent debulking craniotomy with a diagnosis of anaplastic astrocytoma, adjuvant radiotherapy, and concomitant and adjuvant temozolomide. Now, 2 years since initial treatment, patient develops new visual symptoms and seizures.

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Male

MRI prior to commencing...

mri

MRI prior to commencing bevacizumab

Enhancement adjacent to posterior horn of right lateral ventricle associated with large area of T2 and FLAIR changes (edema).

Comparison has been made to previous imaging and this demonstrates radiologic progression consistent with the development of new symptoms.

Bevacizumab was commenced.

MRI 2 mth after starting...

mri

MRI 2 mth after starting bevacizumab

Near complete resolution of enhancement.

Decrease in the extent of T2 and FLAIR change, and decrease in mass effect.

The underlying lesion appears larger on DWI.

Case Discussion

In response to the anti-angiogenic chemotherapy (bevacizumab), the post-treatment MRI shows significant reduction in enhacement, mass affect and the surrounding T2 changes, thought to be largely due to normalization of the blood brain barrier. 

The underlying lesion however appears to have increased in size on DWI.

These features are most consistent with tumor pseudoresponse.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.