The morphologic analysis of a not well-known anatomical structure's calcifications (Bochdalek's Flower Basket Calcifications)

Abstract

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

Materials and methods: 264 computed tomography (CT)s belong to healthy patients were included in the study [50.0038 ± 24.78309 (0-92 years old) (mean age± SD; 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 whose age is above 60 years old, 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 old. No Boc FBC was found under the age of 50. Statistically, there is a highly significant correlation between Boc FB 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). 37.3% of Boc FBCs had a conical form. This form was not accompanied by any vascular calcifications (VC) neither basilar nor vertebral. Therefore, seeing the conical form was valuable in the differential diagnosis.

Conclusions: In our study, Boc FBCs are seen in advanced age and are not encountered under the age of fifty. The conical form is seen in one-third of the cases, but it is a very beneficial finding for distinguishing Boc FBC from other calcifications if any. In the advanced age group calcifications; especially choroidal 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.