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Published on: August 12, 2019
Asymptomatic brain tumor detected at brain check-up
M Onizuka1, K Suyama, A Shibayama
1Department of Neurosurgery, Sankoukai Miyazaki Hospital, Isahaya, Nagasaki, Japan.
Neurologia Medico-Chirurgica
|October 12, 2001
Summary
Routine brain check-ups detected incidental brain tumors in 0.3% of healthy individuals. Most tumors were benign, but surgical indications require careful consideration of patient preferences.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Brain check-ups are increasingly common for detecting neurological conditions.
- Early detection of asymptomatic brain tumors is crucial for patient outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the incidence of incidental brain tumors in healthy individuals undergoing medical examinations.
- To analyze the types of brain tumors detected and their management.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective analysis of 4000 healthy subjects undergoing medical and radiological examinations.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used for brain examination.
- Tumor types were classified based on histopathological findings.
Main Results:
- Eleven brain tumors were detected, with a detection rate of 0.3%.
- The most common tumors were meningiomas (6), followed by pituitary adenomas (3), astrocytoma (1), and epidermoid cyst (1).
- Nine patients underwent surgery, with one experiencing transient oculomotor nerve paresis.
Conclusions:
- Widespread brain check-ups can lead to increased detection of asymptomatic brain tumors.
- Surgical indications for incidental brain tumors are not well-defined.
- Treatment strategies should prioritize patient wishes and shared decision-making.
