Diencephalic tumours presenting as psychosis.

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Psychiatry
• Neurology

Background:

• Diencephalic tumors often present with increased intracranial pressure, endocrine, and visual issues.
• Psychiatric manifestations of diencephalic tumors are infrequently recognized.
• Unexplained behavioral changes can be an early indicator of underlying organic pathology.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the diagnostic challenges and advantages of psychiatric evaluations for diencephalic tumors.
• To highlight psychosis as a potential initial symptom of diencephalic tumors.
• To underscore the importance of psychiatric assessment in diagnosing rare brain tumors.

Main Methods:

• Case report of two patients with psychosis and diagnosed diencephalic tumors.
• Detailed radiological examinations to confirm the diagnosis.
• Surgical treatment was performed for both cases.

Main Results:

• Two cases successfully diagnosed with diencephalic tumors following psychiatric evaluation.
• Psychosis was the presenting symptom in both reported cases.
• Radiological confirmation and subsequent surgical intervention were achieved.

Conclusions:

• Psychiatric evaluation is essential for patients with unexplained behavioral changes to rule out organic causes like diencephalic tumors.
• Prompt surgical management is recommended once a diencephalic tumor diagnosis is suspected or confirmed.
• Integrating psychiatric and neurological assessments can improve diagnostic accuracy for rare brain pathologies.