Spinal Epidural Hemangiomas: Various Types of MR Imaging Features With Histopathologic Correlation

摘要

We read with interest the article by Lee et al1 in the August 2007 issue of the American Journal of Neuroradiology (AJNR), "Spinal Epidural Hemangiomas: Various Types of MR Imaging Features With Histopathologic Correlation." Over the past 25 years, there has been a quantum leap forward in our understanding of vascular anomalies, which has resulted in more accurate diagnosis, improved treatment, and focused research. This new-found clarity results from the fundamental distinction drawn between vascular tumors (the most common being infantile hemangioma) and vascular malformations, subclassified as capillary, venous, lymphatic, and arterial malformations (such as arteriovenous malformations and fistulas).2 This binary classification bears the imprimatur of the International Society for the Study of Vascular Anomalies.3 This nosology makes biologic and clinical sense, has been confirmed across a broad range of disciplines, and has led to the identification of several new clinical entities.