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Fourth ventricular subependymoma presenting as worsening headache
Amin F Saad1, Shaad B Bidiwala, Kennith F Layton
1Departments of Radiology (Saad, Layton, Opatowsky), Neurological Surgery (Bidiwala), and Pathology (Snipes), Baylor University Medical Center at Dallas.
Proceedings (Baylor University. Medical Center)
|February 6, 2013
Summary
Subependymomas are rare, slow-growing brain tumors. This case report details a patient presenting with headaches, highlighting imaging, pathology, and treatment for this benign neoplasm.
Area of Science:
- Neuropathology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Subependymomas are uncommon, slow-growing benign neoplasms.
- While often asymptomatic, they can cause symptoms like headaches due to increased intracranial pressure and hydrocephalus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a case of subependymoma in a 47-year-old male with worsening headaches.
- To focus on the diagnostic imaging findings, differential diagnoses, pathological characteristics, and therapeutic options for subependymoma.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a 47-year-old male patient.
- Review of imaging findings (e.g., MRI, CT).
- Discussion of pathological features and differential diagnoses.
- Outline of treatment strategies.
Main Results:
- The patient presented with symptoms consistent with increased intracranial pressure.
- Imaging revealed a subependymoma, a rare benign brain tumor.
- Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Subependymomas, though rare, should be considered in the differential diagnosis of intracranial tumors presenting with obstructive hydrocephalus.
- Accurate imaging and pathological analysis are crucial for diagnosis and management.
- Treatment is tailored to symptom presentation and tumor characteristics.
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