Cavernous haemangioma of the orbit is the most common primary benign orbital tumour in adults. On MRI, its characteristic signal is:
- A T1 hypointense, T2 hypointense with homogeneous enhancement
- B T1 hyperintense due to fat content, suppressed on fat-sat sequences
- C T1 isointense, T2 hyperintense with progressive 'fill-in' enhancement on dynamic contrast studies ✓
- D T2 hypointense due to calcification with rim enhancement
Correct answer: C. T1 isointense, T2 hyperintense with progressive 'fill-in' enhancement on dynamic contrast studies
Explanation
Orbital cavernous haemangioma on MRI shows T1 isointensity and marked T2 hyperintensity (blood-filled spaces), with characteristic progressive 'fill-in' or 'puddle' enhancement on dynamic contrast MRI as blood slowly percolates through the vascular spaces. This progressive enhancement pattern distinguishes it from arteriovenous malformations (rapid enhancement) and helps plan surgical excision — the tumour is typically encapsulated and amenable to complete excision.
Reference: Khurana Comprehensive Ophthalmology, 7th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.