Mibrain cystic pilocytic astrocytoma
Ali Alkhaibary1, Amani AbuHassan2, Moutasem Azzubi3
1College of Medicine, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia; Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Ministry of National Guard - Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Summary
A rare midbrain cystic pilocytic astrocytoma in an 8-year-old girl presented with neurological deficits. Surgical biopsy and aspiration led to immediate improvement, highlighting this rare tumor's presentation and management.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
Background:
- Pilocytic astrocytoma (CNS WHO grade I) commonly affects children, typically arising in the cerebellum or cerebrum.
- Brainstem pilocytic astrocytoma is rare, accounting for only 10% of cases.
- This report details a rare case of a midbrain cystic pilocytic astrocytoma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical and radiological presentation of a rare midbrain cystic pilocytic astrocytoma.
- To highlight the surgical challenges associated with this rare tumor location.
Main Methods:
- Case report of an 8-year-old girl with neurological deficits.
- Brain MRI revealed a cystic lesion with a mural nodule in the midbrain.
- Stereotactic biopsy and aspiration of the cystic component were performed.
Main Results:
- Histopathology confirmed pilocytic astrocytoma (CNS WHO grade 1).
- Post-operative improvement in hemiparesis and facial asymmetry was immediate.
- The patient was initiated on chemotherapy with planned follow-up.
Conclusions:
- Midbrain cystic pilocytic astrocytoma is a rare entity posing surgical challenges.
- This case illustrates the characteristic clinical and radiological features of this rare tumor.
