CSF Rhinorrhea: A Rare Clinical Presentation of Choroid Plexus Papilloma

Layth Mula-Hussain1, Julia Malone1, Marlise P Dos Santos2

  • 1Radiation Oncology Division, The Ottawa Hospital-University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1H 8L6, Canada.

Insights

Choroid plexus papilloma, a rare brain tumor, can occur in adults and present atypically. This case highlights successful treatment with subtotal resection and CyberKnife radiosurgery for a cerebellopontine angle tumor causing CSF rhinorrhea.

Area of Science:

  • Neuro-oncology
  • Neurosurgery
  • Radiation Oncology

Background:

  • Choroid plexus papilloma (CPP) is a rare intracranial tumor predominantly affecting pediatric populations.
  • Intraventricular location and increased intracranial pressure (ICP) are typical presentations of CPP.
  • Cerebellopontine angle (CPA) location and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea are atypical manifestations.

Observation:

  • A middle-aged female presented with spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea.
  • The causative lesion was identified as a CPA tumor.
  • Initial management involved craniotomy and subtotal tumor resection.

Findings:

  • The patient remained progression and rhinorrhea-free for several years post-surgery.
  • Recurrence or progression led to treatment with CyberKnife stereotactic radiosurgery.
  • The patient exhibited clinical improvement and favorable radiologic response to radiosurgery.

Implications:

  • This case expands the understanding of CPP presentation in adults.
  • It underscores the efficacy of a multimodal treatment approach including radiosurgery for recurrent or residual CPA tumors.
  • Highlights the potential for long-term disease control with advanced treatment modalities.