[Tetraventricular ependymoma. Presentation of a case]

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Pathology
• Neurology

Background:

• Encephalic ependymoma diagnosis is challenging due to varied clinical presentations.
• Tumor growth within or around ventricles often obscures symptoms.
• Computerized axial tomography aids in diagnosis, but early detection remains difficult.

Observation:

• A rare case of ependymoma involving all encephalic ventricular cavities was studied.
• The tumor's extensive localization and spread presented an atypical clinical picture.
• Macro and microscopic autoptic examination provided detailed pathological insights.

Findings:

• The widespread ependymoma caused a subtle internal communicating hydrocephalus.
• Immediate generalized convulsive signs were a prominent clinical feature.
• The polymorphous nature of ependymoma contributes to diagnostic challenges.

Implications:

• This case underscores the importance of comprehensive autoptic studies in understanding rare brain tumors.
• Further research into early diagnostic markers for widespread ependymoma is warranted.
• Understanding atypical presentations can improve clinical suspicion and diagnostic accuracy for encephalic ependymoma.