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Multicystic metastatic carcinoid to brain: case report
K A Greene1, J A Anson, J A Martinez
1Division of Neurological Surgery, Barrow Neurological Institute, St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center, Phoenix, Arizona.
Journal of Neuro-Oncology
|July 1, 1993
Summary
Brain metastases from carcinoid tumors are rare, especially presenting as initial symptoms. This case highlights cystic brain lesions from lung carcinoid, with serotonin found in cyst fluid.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Endocrinology
- Pulmonary Medicine
Background:
- Carcinoid tumors, typically slow-growing neuroendocrine neoplasms, rarely metastasize to the brain.
- Symptomatic brain metastases are an uncommon presentation for carcinoid primaries.
Observation:
- A patient presented with headaches and seizures, unusual initial symptoms for carcinoid.
- Multiple cystic brain lesions were identified, indicative of metastases.
- Serotonin was detected within the fluid of the cystic cavities.
Findings:
- The brain metastases originated from a lung carcinoid primary.
- Despite serotonin in cyst fluid, serum serotonin levels were normal.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) detected metastases missed by initial computed tomography (CT).
Implications:
- This case underscores the importance of considering rare diagnoses in neuro-oncology.
- It highlights the potential for carcinoid brain metastases to present atypically.
- Further research may elucidate the role of localized serotonin in cystic brain metastases.