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Cerebellar mutism after posterior fossa surgery--two case reports
Y Kai1, J Kuratsu, K Suginohara
1Department of Neurosurgery, Kumamoto University Medical School.
Neurologia Medico-Chirurgica
|February 18, 1998
Summary
Cerebellar mutism is rare in adults after posterior fossa surgery for brain tumors. This study reports two adult cases, highlighting the condition
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Posterior fossa surgery is performed for mass lesions in the cerebellum.
- Cerebellar mutism is a known postoperative complication, predominantly observed in pediatric patients.
- Adult-onset cerebellar mutism following posterior fossa tumor resection is exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- Two adult patients (71 and 74 years old) developed cerebellar mutism postoperatively.
- Mutism occurred on the 2nd postoperative day and persisted for 3-4 weeks.
- Cerebellar dysarthria followed within 2-4 months, with subsequent improvement.
Findings:
- Histological examination revealed a hemangioblastoma and a metastatic brain tumor.
- Complete tumor removal was achieved via the occipital transtentorial approach.
- The adult cases presented similarly to pediatric cases, despite differences in tumor type and location.
Implications:
- This study expands the understanding of cerebellar mutism in adults.
- It suggests that adult cerebellar mutism, though rare, can occur after posterior fossa surgery.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and potential risk factors in adult populations.