Lateral ventricle tumors in children: a series of 54 cases

G Zuccaro1, F Sosa, V Cuccia

  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Hospital Nacional de Pediatría "Juan P. Garrahan", Buenos Aires, Argentina. gnzuccaro@ciudad.com.ar

Insights

This study reviewed 54 pediatric lateral ventricle tumors, finding they are often large and benign. Total surgical resection is the preferred treatment for these brain tumors.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Pediatric Neurosurgery
  • Neurosurgical Oncology

Background:

  • Lateral ventricle tumors are rare in pediatric patients.
  • These tumors can cause significant neurological deficits due to mass effect and hydrocephalus.
  • Understanding the characteristics and outcomes of these tumors is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the clinical characteristics, surgical management, and outcomes of pediatric patients with lateral ventricle tumors.
  • To identify the most common tumor types, locations, and presenting symptoms.
  • To evaluate the surgical approaches and complications associated with these tumors.

Main Methods:

  • Retrospective review of 54 patients with lateral ventricle tumors treated between 1988 and 1998.
  • Exclusion of tumors invading ventricles or originating outside their walls.
  • Analysis of patient demographics, tumor histology, surgical techniques, and postoperative outcomes.

Main Results:

  • The study included 54 patients (35 male, 19 female) aged 15 days to 20 years, with peak incidence at 2 and 11 years.
  • Most frequent symptoms were related to increased intracranial pressure; 41 patients developed hydrocephalus, with 15 requiring shunting.
  • Common tumor types included subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, choroid plexus tumors, ependymoma, and astrocytoma; trigonal region and frontal horn were common origins.
  • Most common complications were intraventricular hemorrhage, cortical collapse, subdural collection, and seizures.

Conclusions:

  • Pediatric lateral ventricle tumors are often voluminous and predominantly benign.
  • Total surgical resection is the primary treatment of choice.
  • Malignant tumors may require postsurgical radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy.