[Postoperative regression of desmoplastic infantile astrocytoma]

Desmoplastic infantile astrocytoma/ganglioglioma (DIA/DIG) is a rare tumor that is usually located superficially with a large cystic component. Gross total removal results in long-term survival in the majority of cases. In rare cases, postoperative regression of the residual tumor has been reported. We report another case of postoperative regression of DIA. A 3-month-old boy presented with increasing head circumference and developmental delay. A CT scan showed a large cystic tumor in his left parieto-occipital lobe. He underwent partial removal. The histopathological examination revealed an astrocytic tumor with marked desmoplasia. In the central portion of the tumor, anaplastic features, such as necrosis, mitosis, and high nucleus-cytoplasmic ratio, were noticed. Diagnosis was DIA. Six months later when he was admitted for the second-stage surgery, MRI showed regression of the tumor. The operation was therefore postponed and MRI at 12 months after surgery revealed further regression. This is the fifth case of postoperative or spontaneous regression of DIA/DIG.