Atypical Virchow-Robin Spaces: Report of Seven Cases

Abstract

The term "Virchow-Robin spaces" (VRS) refers to the extension of the subarachnoid space accompanying a vessel penetrating the cerebral cortex. In case of widening, they can be seen on magnetic resonance imaging as round, oval, or curvilinear well-defined cystic lesions with smooth margins, isointense to cerebrospinal fluid. Although dilated VRS are normal findings that may be seen at all ages, big and atypical forms are rare. Although they have associated mass effect, they should not be mistaken for neoplasm or other disease. We report seven patients whose ages were between 7 and 66 (mean: 35.8) years showing unilateral or bilateral cerebral intraparenchymal extensive cystic dilations corresponding to atypical VRS (two with Type-I and five with Type-II VRS), with clinical and radiological findings.