Intermediate
Technical
IVT
choroid plexus
Vascular structure within brain ventricles that produces cerebrospinal fluid, commonly showing enhancement on MRI.
Full Definition
The choroid plexus is a highly vascularized structure located within the lateral, third, and fourth ventricles that produces cerebrospinal fluid through filtration and active transport mechanisms. Composed of specialized ependymal cells and a rich capillary network, the choroid plexus normally enhances intensely and symmetrically on post-contrast imaging due to its lack of blood-brain barrier. Asymmetric enhancement, enlargement, or calcification of the choroid plexus can indicate pathological processes including infection, inflammation, or neoplasm.
Usage
Usage note: Normal enhancement should not be misinterpreted as pathological.
In Context
- "Symmetric enhancement of the choroid plexus was noted bilaterally without evidence of pathological enlargement." — normal MRI report
- "Asymmetric thickening and enhancement of the left choroid plexus raised concern for inflammatory changes." — meningitis workup
Don't confuse with
ependymal lining
ventricular wall