Endodermal cyst anterior and anterolateral to the brainstem: a report of an experience with seven cases

We report our experience with seven cases of endodermal cysts located anterior and anterolateral to the brainstem. The ages of the patients ranged from 10 to 35 years. There were three males and four females. The cysts had characteristic imaging features, and contained fluid having a 'greenish-yellow pus-like' hue and consistency varied from thin watery fluid to colloid gel like material. The capsule of the tumour was relatively thin. A radical resection of the cyst contents was done in all cases. Because of the thin nature of capsule, wide extensions and intimate relationship with critical nerves and vessels, complete resection of the cyst wall was possible only in one case, whilst in others the wall was partially resected. All patients showed a rapid symptomatic and neurological recovery. During the average follow-up period of 53 months, there has been no recurrence in the cyst and all patients are leading normal lives. In this presentation, the clinical and radiological features and surgical management of endodermal cysts are discussed and the relevant literature is briefly reviewed. It appears that evacuation of the cyst contents and partial resection of the cyst wall could be a safe treatment option in these cases.