World Neurosurg
-
Intracranial germ cell tumors are a rare group of neoplasms constituting 1% to 2% of primary intracranial tumors in North America and Europe. Germinomas of the corpus callosum are exceedingly rare, accounting for only 0.7% of all intracranial germ cell tumors. ⋯ This is a case of germinoma arising in the corpus callosum that presented clinically with an eating disorder manifested as restrictive anorexia.
-
Whether the risk of rupture of a cerebral arteriovenous malformation (AVM) increases during pregnancy remains controversial. Moreover, it is unclear whether the number of pregnancies correlates with AVM rupture risk. We report a case of ruptured AVM during the fifth pregnancy. ⋯ This report suggests that the risk of AVM rupture persists even after multiple deliveries. Intracranial hemorrhage should be suspected in pregnant patients who underwent multiple deliveries, and a rapid diagnosis and appropriate treatment are necessary.
-
Paragangliomas are neuroendocrine neoplasms that arise from the extra-adrenal paraganglia of the autonomic nervous system. Approximately 3% of all paragangliomas occur in the head and neck region. Most reported cases are benign and unilateral. We present a rare case of bilateral malignant paragangliomas. ⋯ The rarity of bilateral malignant paragangliomas makes their management clinically challenging. The primary management of a recognized malignancy should be directed toward complete surgical removal of the primary tumor and regional lymph nodes. Postoperative radiation is beneficial in slowing the progression of residual disease. Genetic studies have shown that familial paragangliomas are associated with germline mutation of SDHD on 11q23.
-
Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) are rare tumors derived from mesenchymal tissues. Notably, despite the widespread reports of SFT in various parts of the body, it is extremely rare in the spine, especially the lumbosacral spine, with only 4 previously reported cases. ⋯ To our knowledge, this is the fifth reported case of lumbar spine SFT, and its diagnosis is a difficult challenge. However, accurate diagnosis and complete resection of SFT in a patient suspected of having SFT could extend life or improve quality of life.
-
The purpose of this study was to evaluate the advantages of endoscopy and navigational assistance in the intradural subtemporal keyhole approach and the intradural Kawase approach by studying anatomic exposure and surgical freedom in the posterior cranial fossa. ⋯ The EISKA provides greater anatomic exposure and surgical freedom primarily in the superior, inferior, and medial directions of the brainstem region. Maximum anatomic exposure and surgical freedom of the posterior cranial fossa was obtained by navigational assistance with fewer complications.