The cells may extend into the subarachnoid space which provokes proliferation of fibrovascular tissue and meningothelial cells. Classic findings are enlargement of the optic foramen and a J-shaped sella. Most optic gliomas demonstrate enlargement of the optic nerve or chiasm with no to moderate contrast enhancement. T1 weighted images demonstrate enlargement of the optic nerve with normal to slightly hypointense signal. T2 weighted imgages demonstrate hyperintense signal.
Contrast enhancement is variable.
Dutton, J.J. Vol. 1. Feb. 1991 Gliomas of the Anterior Visual Pathway. Survey of Opthalmology. Dutton, J.J. Vol.