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Giant cell ependymoma: a case report.
Dariusz Adamek1, Malgorzata Dec, Grazyna Sobol
1Department of Neuropathology, Medical College, Jagiellonian University, 3 Botaniczna St, 31-503 Krakow, Poland. mnadamek@cyf-kr.edu.pl
Clinical Neurology and Neurosurgery
|November 17, 2007
Summary
Giant cell ependymoma (GCE) is a rare brain tumor variant. Despite concerning histology, this case suggests GCE may have a favorable prognosis.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Neuropathology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Ependymomas represent 3-9% of neuroepithelial tumors.
- Giant cell ependymoma (GCE) is an exceptionally rare variant, posing diagnostic challenges.
- Accurate diagnosis is crucial for appropriate patient management and prognosis.
Observation:
- A 17-year-old patient presented with headaches and vision impairment.
- CT revealed a left occipital lobe mass originating from the lateral ventricle.
- Histological, immunohistochemical, and electron microscopic analyses confirmed a high-grade ependymoma with predominant bizarre pleomorphic giant cells.
Findings:
- The diagnosis of giant cell ependymoma (GCE) was established based on distinctive histological features.
- Differential diagnosis includes anaplastic oligodendroglioma, clear cell ependymoma, pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma, giant cell glioblastoma, and subependymal giant cell astrocytoma.
- This represents the 8th reported case of GCE in the literature.
Implications:
- GCE requires careful differentiation from other glial tumors due to its unique morphology.
- Despite its 'worrisome' histological appearance, GCE appears to have a relatively good prognosis.
- Further research into GCE pathogenesis and behavior is warranted to optimize treatment strategies.