Gamma knife radiosurgery of recurrent central neurocytomas: a preliminary report

A series of three recurrent central neurocytomas treated by gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS), which were initially totally resected, are described. Up to now, no reports exist on this treatment modality for this rare tumour entity.

Three male patients, aged between 20 and 25 years, presented with large intraventricular tumours. Total tumour removal was achieved by a single surgical procedure (one patient) or two operations (two patients). Neuropathological investigation showed a central neurocytoma, immunohistochemically all three tumours expressed a neuronal antigenic profile typical for neurocytomas, and the MIB-1 proliferation index ranged from 2.4% to 8.7%. Each patient experienced a tumour recurrence after 5 to 6 years. The recurrence was multifocal in two and a singular tumour mass in one patient. Gamma knife radiosurgery was performed. The tumours were enclosed within the 30% to 60% isodoseline, and delivered a tumour marginal dose of 9.6 to 16 Gy. During the follow up period, the patients were tested clinically and the volume of the tumours was measured on MRI.

Within follow up periods of 1 to 5 years, control MRI showed a significant decrease of the tumour mass in all cases. None of the patients developed new neurological symptoms after GKRS. Two patients returned to work in their previous employment, whereas one patient remained permanently disabled due to a pre-existing visual impairment and abducens palsy.

GKRS proved to be a useful tool in the treatment of recurrent central neurocytomas. Tumour control and even tumour shrinkage can be achieved with a single procedure and a low risk of morbidity.