Pilocytic astrocytomas in elderly adults.
N Kitamura1, T Hasebe, R Kasai
1Department of Radiology, Toho University Sakura Medical Center; Chiba, Japan - teru_hasebe@sakura.med.toho-u.ac.jp.
The Neuroradiology Journal
|October 24, 2013
Summary
Pilocytic astrocytomas, rare in the elderly, are WHO grade I gliomas. This study highlights two cases in older adults, emphasizing their consideration in differential diagnoses based on characteristic imaging findings.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Pilocytic astrocytomas are WHO grade I gliomas, typically affecting younger individuals.
- Occurrence in elderly adults is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report and characterize pilocytic astrocytomas in elderly patients.
- To emphasize the importance of considering pilocytic astrocytomas in the differential diagnosis for older adults presenting with characteristic radiographic findings.
Main Methods:
- Case report of two elderly patients (68-year-old male, 71-year-old female) diagnosed with pilocytic astrocytoma.
- Review of brain computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings.
- Pathological examination of tumor tissue.
Main Results:
- Both patients presented with well-circumscribed brain lesions.
- Imaging revealed contrast enhancement and minimal surrounding edema.
- Pathological studies confirmed the diagnosis of pilocytic astrocytoma.
Conclusions:
- Pilocytic astrocytomas can occur in elderly adults, despite their rarity.
- Characteristic radiographic features on CT and MRI warrant consideration of pilocytic astrocytoma in the differential diagnosis for this age group.
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