Question

[Abrecheisen53]

I have read in some of the posts about the "hummingbird or penguin" ? I'm assuming on a MRI? Would someone please explain what they are?

Thanks so much, Alice

[Yvonneandgeorge]

When George had the MRI they came back and said he definitely had psp, the hummingbird shape was there xxxx

[Abrecheisen53 in reply to Yvonneandgeorge]

John has an appt. in April. Will definately ask. Thanks! Alice

[easterncedar]

I believe the damage from PSP characteristically appears as a shadow on the MRI of the brain in a sort of hummingbird shape. This was fairly recently discovered, like 10 years ago perhaps, but, while not viewed as conclusive by our specialist, was taken by her as confirming her diagnosis from the outward symptoms.

[JR61]

Hi Alice, the hummingbird or penguin sign describes the distinct shape of the brain stem which can be seen in the MRI brain scans of PSP patients when seen from the side

radiopaedia.org/cases/27320...

Another sign is known as Mickey Mouse

radiopaedia.org/cases/16914...

I hope these links work so that you can see the examples, if you slide your finger over the image it changes as the image progresses through the many scan segments.

I hope that this proves helpful Ruth x

[Abrecheisen53 in reply to JR61]

Wow!! I have never heard of that before. VERY interesting...thank you for the pics. Alice

[rriddle]

Very cool, Ruth!