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Glioblastoma associated with intratumoral abscess formation. Case report
Atsushi Tsugu1, Takahiro Osada, Jun Nishiyama
1Department of Neurosurgery, Tokai University School of Medicine, Isehara, Kanagawa. tsugu@is.icc.u-tokai.ac.jp
Abstract:
A 45-year-old man presented with a rare case of glioblastoma associated with intratumoral abscess formation manifesting as headache and vomiting after an appendectomy. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a ring-enhanced lesion mimicking malignant glioma. Craniotomy and tumor removal were performed. Abscess formation within the intra-axial tumor was found intraoperatively. Histological examination revealed glioblastoma with abscess, and the etiological agent was anaerobic Gram-negative bacilli. The suspected route of microbial migration and colonization in this tumor was bacteremia from appendicitis.
Insights
A rare glioblastoma case presented with an intratumoral abscess. This brain tumor with abscess was linked to bacteremia from appendicitis, a novel finding in neuro-oncology.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Infectious Disease
- Pathology
Background:
- Glioblastoma is an aggressive primary brain tumor.
- Intratumoral abscess formation is an exceptionally rare complication of brain tumors.
- Appendicitis can lead to bacteremia, potentially seeding infections in various organs.
Observation:
- A 45-year-old male developed headache and vomiting post-appendectomy.
- Imaging revealed a ring-enhanced lesion suggestive of a malignant glioma.
- Intraoperative findings confirmed an abscess within the intra-axial tumor.
Findings:
- Histological examination diagnosed glioblastoma with abscess formation.
- The etiological agent identified was anaerobic Gram-negative bacilli.
- Bacteremia originating from appendicitis was the suspected cause of tumor colonization.
Implications:
- This case highlights a potential, albeit rare, pathway for infection in brain tumors.
- Understanding this association may influence diagnostic and treatment strategies for similar presentations.
- Further research is warranted to explore the mechanisms of tumor-abscess synergy.
