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Isolated metastasis to optic nerve from medulloblastoma
J A Garrity1, D C Herman, R P Dinapoli
1Department of Ophthalmology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905.
Ophthalmology
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Isolated optic nerve metastasis from medulloblastoma is rare. This case highlights a late complication in a young adult, emphasizing the need for vigilance in neuro-oncology patients.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Ophthalmology
- Pathology
Background:
- Medulloblastoma is a common pediatric brain tumor.
- Isolated optic nerve metastasis is an infrequent presentation.
- Treatment typically involves surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
Observation:
- A 19-year-old male with cerebellar medulloblastoma underwent gross total removal and craniospinal radiation.
- He developed progressive optic neuropathy 28 months post-treatment.
- Radiological scans showed an enlarged optic nerve without other metastatic disease.
Findings:
- Optic nerve biopsy confirmed metastatic medulloblastoma.
- An intramedullary metastasis occurred 48 months after initial diagnosis.
- The patient succumbed to the disease 5 months later.
Implications:
- This case underscores the potential for late, isolated optic nerve recurrence of medulloblastoma.
- It highlights the importance of ophthalmologic surveillance in survivors.
- Further research into risk factors and management strategies for isolated metastases is warranted.