Glioblastoma multiforme of the conus medullaris in a child: description of a case and literature review

We describe a case of glioblastoma multiforme of the conus medullaris in a child. MR imaging showed at the T12-L1 level an intramedullary mass with signal alteration, with only two nodules of contrast enhancement. The finding was consistent with astrocytoma. Pathologic evaluation was consistent with glioblastoma multiforme. Nine months after the surgical treatment, the patient showed leptomeningeal recurrence. This case appears to be unusual for both the hysto-type and the nonspecific MR imaging features.