Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 3, 2026
Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
Intracranial Cavernous Malformation with Concomitant Isolated Cerebral Mucormycosis Infection: A Case Report
Pratishtha Sengar1, Nityanand Pandey2, Vikas Kailashiya1
1Department of Pathology, Institute of Medical Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, India.
Abstract:
Cerebral cavernous malformation is an angiographically occult, well-circumscribed, benign hamartoma consisting of thin-walled sinusoidal vascular channels. Intracranial mucormycosis represents one of the most severe manifestations of mucor infection. We, hereby, report a case of cavernous malformation made rarer with concomitant mucormycosis. A 22-year-old female presented with left-sided facial seizures since age of 7 years and headache for the past 3 years. Magnetic resonance imaging brain revealed a right posterior frontal lobe cavernous malformation. Right frontal craniotomy with excision of cavernoma was done. Gross examination showed a solid cystic mass with multiple mulberry protrusions. Histopathological examination revealed features of cavernous malformation with evidence of mucormycosis. A final diagnosis of cavernous malformation with mucormycosis was rendered and microbiological studies were advised. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first case report of a cerebral cavernous malformation with mucormycosis in an immunocompetent patient without any risk factor.
Insights
This case report details a rare instance of cerebral cavernous malformation co-occurring with mucormycosis in an immunocompetent patient. The study highlights the importance of thorough histopathological examination for diagnosing such rare co-infections.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pathology
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are benign vascular hamartomas.
- Intracranial mucormycosis is a severe fungal infection with high mortality.
- Co-occurrence of CCM and mucormycosis is exceptionally rare, particularly in immunocompetent individuals.
Observation:
- A 22-year-old female presented with a history of seizures and headaches.
- MRI revealed a right posterior frontal lobe cavernous malformation.
- Surgical excision of the cavernoma showed features of both CCM and mucormycosis upon histopathology.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination confirmed the coexistence of cerebral cavernous malformation and mucormycosis.
- This represents the first reported case in an immunocompetent patient without identifiable risk factors.
- Microbiological studies were recommended for further characterization of the fungal infection.
Implications:
- This case underscores the need for heightened awareness and diagnostic vigilance for rare co-infections in neurosurgical cases.
- It suggests that CCMs, though benign, might present unique challenges or associations in specific clinical contexts.
- Further research into potential predisposing factors or mechanisms for such rare co-infections is warranted.
Related Concept Videos
01:22Bacterial Meningitis I: Introduction
01:26Brain Abscess l: Introduction