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Multifocal desmoplastic noninfantile astrocytoma
K Santhosh1, C Kesavadas, V V Radhakrishnan
1Department of Imaging Sciences and Interventional Radiology, Sree Chitra Tirunal Institute for Medical Sciences and Technology, Trivandrum 695011, India.
Abstract:
This is a report of a case of multifocal desmoplastic astrocytoma in an 11-year-old child in which we describe the MRI findings and discuss the possible mechanism of its development. The MRI appearances in our case support the view that the tumor is primarily of leptomeningeal or superficial cortical origin, with cystic formation secondary to entrapment of cerebrospinal fluid. The question of whether or not the lesions are metastases or metachronous lesions is also discussed. Desmoplastic astrocytoma at a noninfantile age is extremely rare: only four cases have been reported in the literature so far. Even more unusual is the presence of this lesion in multiple locations at the initial presentation.
Insights
Multifocal desmoplastic astrocytoma is exceptionally rare in children. This case report details MRI findings and discusses the tumor
Area of Science:
- Pediatric neuro-oncology
- Neuroradiology
- Surgical neuropathology
Background:
- Desmoplastic astrocytoma is a rare glial tumor, typically diagnosed in infancy.
- Non-infantile desmoplastic astrocytoma is exceedingly rare, with limited case reports.
- Multifocal presentation at initial diagnosis is highly unusual for this tumor type.
Observation:
- An 11-year-old child presented with multifocal desmoplastic astrocytoma.
- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed characteristic tumor appearances.
- Tumor origin was suggested to be leptomeningeal or superficial cortical.
Findings:
- MRI findings supported a primary leptomeningeal or superficial cortical origin.
- Cystic formations were attributed to cerebrospinal fluid entrapment.
- The differential diagnosis included metastases versus metachronous lesions.
Implications:
- This case expands the understanding of desmoplastic astrocytoma in older children.
- The findings contribute to the discussion on tumor development mechanisms.
- Further research is needed to clarify the behavior and treatment of rare pediatric brain tumors.
