Central tegmentum tract hyperintensities in pediatric neurological patients: Incidence or coincidence

Abstract Aim The central tegmental tract hyperintensities (CTTH) have been found in many different pediatric neurological conditions. There is only scarce data about the value of this radiological phenomenon. In this study we aimed to show the neurological conditions associated with this radiological finding. Materials and methods We performed a retrospective analysis of all pediatric brain MRI’s between 2013 and 2015. After finding those patients with CTTH, we evaluated them in the pediatric neurology clinic. Results There were 41 out of 1464 brain MRI’s with CTTH with 2.8% prevalence. Thirty four patients (23 male, age range 3 months–98 months) were available for evaluation. CTTH were present in mainly younger age group. There were many different neurological conditions associated with CTTH. These included brain tumors, epilepsy, developmental delay, metabolic disorders and genetic syndromes. Conclusion CTTH is found in many different pediatric neurological conditions. Further neuropathological and prospective MRI and clinical studies are needed to better understand this interesting radiological finding.