Maka Tshuma Tambo

Radiation-induced pediatric CNS Tumors

Radiation induced tumors are a rare but profound complication of cancer treatment. These are even rarer in the pediatric population due to the length of time it takes from exposure for the stochastic effects to manifest which can take years to decades. This study reviews the imaging appearances of radiation induced tumors occurring in pediatric patients previously treated for a CNS tumor. Our aim is to understand the types of tumors frequently induced and relate that to the initial diagnosis and therapeutic regimen the patient previously had and understand long term implications.

Spontaneous Pediatric Aneurysms

The purpose of this project is to conduct a comprehensive pictorial review of spontaneous brain aneurysms in pediatric patients, with the goal of expanding current understanding of the prevalence, characteristics, and unique radiologic features of these rare conditions. Spontaneous brain aneurysms are uncommon in the pediatric population, accounting for less than 2% of all cerebral aneurysms. Their rarity and distinctive presentation, often with subarachnoid haemorrhage, make them a significant clinical concern, as they tend to occur with complex features, such as giant or dissecting aneurysms. This project seeks to build on findings from prior studies, like those by Huang et al. (2005) and Kim et al. (2017), which underscore the importance of early intervention, long-term follow-up, and advancing techniques to improve patient outcomes. However, these studies are based on data that is now somewhat outdated, covering cases only up to 2017. This project incorporates more recent imaging cases from 2014 to 2024, providing updated insights. The project’s main aims are to analyze and document imaging findings, particularly from MRI sequences such as T1, T2, DWI, and SWI, to discern patterns and potential causes of aneurysms in children. By focusing on specific radiologic features, such as aneurysm size, shape, and location, we aim to shed light on their unique characteristics in pediatric cases compared to adult populations. This visual study will generate high-resolution images and an analysis of these findings to assist in diagnosing, managing, and monitoring pediatric aneurysms more effectively.

Clinical and radiologic features for differentiating submandibular cystic masses in pediatric patients

Submandibular cystic masses in pediatric patients can arise from several different causes including plunging ranulas, lymphatic malformations, or vascular malformations. The aim of this study is to propose an algorithm for differentiating causes for submandibular cystic masses in children using radiologic and clinical findings. Since treatment differs based on the diagnosis, patients are often required to undergo further invasive studies (i.e. biopsy, angiography etc.) before surgical resection or sclerotherapy is provided. Therefore, the findings of this study will be relevant to help improve clinical decision-making and reduce unnecessary interventions.

Pediatric HIE

Correlating early brain volumetric changes and multiparametric imaging findings in neonatal brain MRI as predictor of long-term neurodevelopment outcome between the different grades of neonatal Hypoxic-Ischemic Encephalopathy.

Grants

Co-Investigator. Brain Maturation and Neurodevelopment in Moderate-Late Preterm Infants. Funding Source: CIHR

Co-Investigator. Brain health in adolescents with critical congenital heart disease. Funding Source: Heart & Stroke Foundation Grant-in-Aid

Co-Investigator. Brain Maturation and Neurodevelopment in Moderate-Late Preterm Infants, Surveillance in High School to Reduce Concussions and Consequences of Concussions. Funding Source: CIHR