Radial bands sign (tuberous sclerosis)

Last revised by Mostafa Elfeky on 19 Mar 2024

The radial bands sign, also known as radial migration bands, refers to linear bands seen on MRI, radiating from the periventricular white matter to the subcortical region, thought to be specific for tuberous sclerosis 1,2.

The exact pathogenesis of radial bands is uncertain, but they are thought to relate to dysfunction of, or injury to, the radial glial fibers (which go on to transform into astrocytes) and form the scaffolding over which neurons migrate from the periventricular germinal matrix to the cortex 2,3

These radial bands appear as linear regions of signal abnormality extending from the ventricle to the cortex, slightly fanning out as they reach the periphery.

Signal characteristics in adults are 1,2:

  • T1: iso to hypointense

  • T2/FLAIR: hyperintense

  • T1 C+ (Gd): occasional enhancement is encountered

In young patients with incomplete myelination, signal characteristics are 2

  • T1: hyperintense to unmyelinated white matter

  • T2: iso to hypointense

The main differential is with the transmantle sign of type II focal cortical dysplasia

ADVERTISEMENT: Supporters see fewer/no ads

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.