Anterior Dura Mater Tectorial Membrane Attenuation: Definition & Understanding

Definition

Attenuation of the anterior dura mater tectorial membrane is a rare congenital abnormality seen in pediatric Neuroradiology.

Pathogenesis

The anterior dura mater tectorial membrane connects the falx cerebri to the crista galli.

During development, the falx cerebri, tentorium cerebelli, and anterior dura mater tectorial membrane are continuous structures formed from the neural crest cells.

It forms the roof of the anterior clinoid processes.

Attenuation of the anterior dura mater tectorial membrane is an anatomical variant rather than a pathologic condition.

Imaging Findings

- CT: Thinning or absence of the anterior dura mater tectorial membrane.

- MR: Thinning or absence of the anterior dura mater tectorial membrane.

Clinical Significance

Usually an incidental finding.

- May be associated with an anterior communicating artery aneurysm.

Differential Diagnoses

- Optic pathway glioma: May cause focal scalloping or erosion of the anterior clinoid processes.

- Meningioma: Infiltrative dural-based mass

- Metastases: Infiltrative dural-based mass