Neuroradiologic findings of hypothalamic hamartoma with emphasis on computed tomography.

Hypothalamic hamartoma is a relatively rare congenital malformation. Five new cases and 31 cases in the literature were evaluated in regard to neuroradiologic findings with emphasis on computed tomography. Five important computed tomography findings were observed: oval-shaped, isodense suprasellar mass; clear demarcation; no enhancement effect; absence of cystic component or calcification; and no effacement of the third ventricle. Clinical features, mechanism of the precocious puberty, and differential diagnosis are also discussed.