[Astrocytoma and epilepsy. Clinical case]

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Pediatric Neurosurgery
• Neuropathology

Background:

• Pilocytic astrocytoma is a rare, typically pediatric posterior fossa tumor.
• It can cause hydrocephalus, intracranial hypertension, seizures, or focal neurological deficits.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) reveals solid and cystic components without significant swelling.

Observation:

• A 22-year-old female presented with a supratentorial pilocytic astrocytoma and epilepsy.
• Histopathology showed a low-grade glial proliferation with specific features like calcifications, piloid areas, Rosenthal fibers, and spongiotic changes.
• The final diagnosis was pilocytic astrocytoma.

Findings:

• This case is unusual due to the patient's age (adult) and the tumor's supratentorial location.
• Surgical intervention resulted in complete tumor resection.
• Long-term prognosis is generally favorable following total resection.

Implications:

• Adult-onset supratentorial pilocytic astrocytoma is rare and presents unique clinical considerations.
• While total resection offers a good prognosis, long-term surveillance is crucial for adult patients due to a higher recurrence risk.
• This case underscores the importance of individualized follow-up protocols for pilocytic astrocytoma in adults.