The fetal ganglionic eminence (GE) is a transient structure in the developing human brain, playing a crucial role in the formation of the cerebral cortex and other critical brain regions. The GE is primarily responsible for the production of GABAergic interneurons, which are essential for the proper functioning of the cerebral cortex. Understanding its anatomy and pathology is essential for identifying potential developmental disorders that may arise during prenatal life. Fetal MRI has emerged as a powerful tool in the assessment of brain development, offering high-resolution images that can reveal subtle changes in the anatomy of the GE. Through the use of fetal MRI radiologists can identify various alterations in the GE, such as cystic cavitations, enlargement, and other morphological changes that may indicate serious malformations in brain development, such as hemimegalencephaly or other cortical malformations. One of the significant advantages of fetal MRI is its ability to provide a comprehensive view of the fetal brain, enabling the identification of not only the GE but also its relationship with surrounding structures such as the lateral ventricles or the thalamus, which can further complicate the clinical picture. By utilizing fetal MRI to study the GE, it becomes possible to detect these disruptions early in gestation, potentially allowing for timely interventions and better parental counseling. Read More

Meeting name: SPR 2025 Annual Meeting , 2025

Authors: Llorens-salvador Roberto, Veiga-canuto Diana

Keywords: Malformation, Fetal Brain MRI, Congenital