Update to non-medulloblastoma embryonal tumours: What neuroradiologists should know

Abstract

In recent years, the classification of embryonal tumours (ETs) of the Central Nervous System (CNS) has significantly evolved to reflect their molecular biology. In the fifth edition of the World Health Organization CNS Tumours classification, published in 2021 (WHO CNS5), diagnostic criteria was clarified for some recognised tumour types. It also added several other newly-identified tumour types, whether definitive or provisional, that particularly affect children. Diagnosis of these neoplasms remains challenging due to these classification changes, the high levels of heterogeneity within the group of ‘other CNS embryonal tumours’, and the scarcity of data on their findings in imaging studies. This review aims to be a useful tool for neuroradiologists, describing the imaging characteristics of this group of neoplasms and providing brief clinical and diagnostic descriptions.