State of Art of LM Radiographic Diagnosis: Anatomic and Functional Imaging

This chapter describes the challenges faced in the initial assessment of leptomeningeal disease (LMD) and the imaging techniques used for the diagnosis and surveillance. First, a background description of LMD and the clinical, laboratory, and radiological criteria used are provided. Second, the imaging techniques including MRI, CSF flow studies, and PET/CT are discussed. The imaging features and locations of LMD and pitfalls to be avoided when interpreting imaging studies are provided. Finally, the Response Assessment in Neuro-Oncology (RANO) proposal for standardizing the initial diagnosis and follow-up criteria of patients with LMD is discussed.