"Candle guttering" sign in Tuberous sclerosis

December 27, 2010

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E-Pearl of the Week

Brought to you by the Resident & Fellow Section of Neurology.

December 27th

"Candle guttering" sign in Tuberous sclerosis

Gross inspection of the brain of patients with tuberous sclerosis reveals sub-ependymal nodules, seen as smooth, rounded projections into the ventricles. These firm, calcified lesions form in rows and their appearance has been likened to wax dripping down the side of a candle, giving rise to a "candle guttering" appearance. They are mostly found in the lateral ventricles though they can be seen in third and fourth ventricle as well as the aqueduct. This appearance can be appreciated on CT scan of the brain as well.

Submitted by Rhadika Dhamija MD

Dr. Dhamija has no disclosures.

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