Is this a tumor

[mary2773]

I got bells palsy for the 2nd time in may. Doctor sent for mri came back with incidental finging pineal mass partially enhancing nodular component measuring 1cm and cystic component measuring 1.6cm. can someone tell me what this means and are the bells and the findings related? I am a 35 year old otherwise healthy female.

[Michael Lim, MD]

In general, most pineal lesions are pineal cysts and are benign.  Studies estimate that as much as 25% of the population have pineal cysts.  Also, bells palsy and pineal lesions are rarely connected.  I would suggest seeing a neurologist if you're not already seeing one.  

[crwstar]

Sorry to hear of your diagnosis. What does it mean? Only a doctor reading your results can really tell you that but if it says mass it usually means a tumor. I have a pituitary tumor with cystic component and its something other than my pituitary gland that's present. Its funny they have many different names for the same thing - mass, tumor, adenoma..which can make it confusing - I know I was when first diagnosed. Hopefully, a doctor will answer you soon.

Be well