Choroid plexus carcinoma in an infant

W M Muhaizan1, A A Zurin, M A Aishah

  • 1Department of Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Jalan Yaacob Latiff, Bandar Tun Razak, Cheras, 56000 Kuala Lumpur.

Insights

Choroid plexus carcinoma, a rare brain tumor in infants, has a poor prognosis. This case highlights a fatal outcome despite surgical tumor removal in a seven-month-old boy.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Oncology
  • Neuro-oncology
  • Pediatric Neurosurgery

Background:

  • Choroid plexus carcinoma is a rare and aggressive intracranial neoplasm predominantly affecting infants and young children.
  • This tumor typically arises within the lateral ventricles, presenting a significant challenge due to its poor prognosis.

Observation:

  • A seven-month-old infant presented with symptoms of increased intracranial pressure and seizures.
  • Brain CT imaging revealed a large intraventricular mass with calcifications and associated hydrocephalus.

Findings:

  • Complete macroscopic resection of the tumor was achieved.
  • Histopathological diagnosis confirmed choroid plexus carcinoma.
  • Despite surgical intervention, the patient unfortunately succumbed to the disease 11 days post-operatively.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the critical need for improved therapeutic strategies for pediatric choroid plexus carcinoma.
  • Further research into the histopathology and molecular underpinnings of this rare neoplasm is warranted.
  • Early diagnosis and aggressive management are crucial, yet outcomes remain challenging.

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