The morphologic analysis of a not well-known anatomical structure's calcifications (Bochdalek's flower basket calcifications).

BACKGROUND

The aim of the study was to define the morphology of calcifications belonging to a not very well-known anatomical structure (calcification of foramen of Luschka/Bochdalek's flower basket calcification [Boc FBC]).

MATERIALS AND

METHODS

Two hundred sixty-four computed tomography (CT) scans obtained from healthy patients were included in the study (50.0038 ± 24.78309 [0-92 years old] [mean age ± standard deviation; range]). The morphology of the calcifications in the fourth ventricle (CFV) and Boc FBC was evaluated and compared with other common intracranial calcifications in each patient.

RESULTS

Boc FBC was detected in 22.35% (59/264) of the patients. Out of 101 patients aged above 60 years, 59 presented Boc FBC (the rate increased to 55.45%), thus in our sample 94.91% of the detected Boc FBCs (56/59) were seen after 60 years of age. No Boc FBC was found under the age of 50. Statistically, there was a highly significant correlation between Boc FBC and pineal/habenular (p < 0.01) as well as choroid plexus calcifications (p < 0.01). The correlation between CFV and Boc FBC was significant (p < 0.05). It was found that 37.3% of Boc FBCs had a conical form. This form was not accompanied by any vascular calcifications, either basilar or vertebral. Therefore, seeing the conical form was valuable in the differential diagnosis.

CONCLUSIONS

In our study, Boc FBCs were seen in advanced age and were not encountered under the age of 50. The conical form was seen in one-third of the cases, but it was a very beneficial finding for distinguishing Boc FBC from other calcifications if any. In the advanced age group, calcifications, especially choroid plexus calcifications and pineal/habenular calcifications, are highly associated with Boc FBC. In the presence of CFV, the probability of encountering Boc FBC is very high.