Primary diffuse leptomeningeal atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) demonstrating atypical imaging findings in an adolescent patient

Atypical teratoid rhabdoid tumor (AT/RT) is a highly malignant central nervous system embryonal tumor, which typically affects the posterior fossa of young children. Primary diffuse leptomeningeal AT/RT, affecting the leptomeninges without any intraparenchymal mass in the brain and spinal cord, is an extremely rare form of AT/RT. Only 5 such cases have been reported previously, none of which underwent Fluorine-18-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography (FDG-PET). We herein report a case of primary leptomeningeal AT/RT in an adolescent patient who underwent computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and FDG-PET. The computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging indicated diffusely thickened leptomeninges without any intraparenchymal masses in the head and spine. Furthermore, there were multiple nodules on the thickened leptomeninges. On FDG-PET, the thickened leptomeninges and nodules demonstrated a lower standardized uptake value than that of the normal cerebral cortex. Biopsy and histopathological studies confirmed the diagnosis of AT/RT. Despite its rare occurrence, it is important to recognize primary diffuse leptomeningeal AT/RT for correct diagnosis and management of patients.