World Neurosurg
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The coexistence of perisellar tumors and intracranial aneurysms was previously considered a rare phenomenon. In this study, we introduce our experience with surgical strategies for the treatment of such coexisting pathologies. ⋯ Staged surgery or conservative treatment for aneurysms can be considered a safe and effective strategy for the treatment of coexisting pathologies. However, in very selected cases, the single-stage EEA can be used as part of a comprehensive treatment for such coexisting pathologies.
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Crooke cell adenomas (CCAs) are a rare, aggressive subset of secretory pituitary corticotroph adenomas (sCTAs) found in 5%-10% of patients with Cushing disease. Multiple studies support worse outcomes in CCAs but are limited by small sample size and single-institution databases. We compared outcomes in CCA and sCTA using a multicenter, international retrospective database of high-volume skull base centers. ⋯ This modern, multicenter series of patients with CCA reflects their poor prognosis and reduced postsurgical hormonal normalization. Further work is necessary to better understand the pathophysiology of CCA to devise more targeted treatment approaches.
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This retrospective study aimed at determining the dimension of the interthalamic adhesion (ITA) in patients with the idiopathic intracranial hypertension (IIH) for assisting in preoperative radiologic diagnosis. ⋯ The height and width of ITA are approximately 50% smaller in IIH than controls; therefore alterations in the dimension of ITA may be a valuable radiologic sign for the diagnosis of IIH.
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Preoperative management requires the identification and optimization of modifiable medical comorbidities, though few studies isolate comorbid status from related patient-level variables. This study evaluates Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI)-an easily derived measure of aggregate medical comorbidity-to predict outcomes from spinal fusion surgery. Coarsened exact matching is employed to control for key patient characteristics and isolate CCI. ⋯ Comorbidity, measured by CCI, did not increase the risk of readmission, reoperation, or mortality. Single-level, posterior lumbar fusions may be safe in appropriately selected patients regardless of comorbid status. Future studies should determine whether CCI can guide discharge planning and postoperative optimization.
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Spinal epidural abscesses (SEA) require prompt diagnosis to avoid devastating consequences. Here, we discuss the case of a healthy 20-year-old college student-with a recent diagnosis of strep pharyngitis-who presented with neck pain, fever, and a neurologic deficit-the most common symptoms of SEA. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a T1-postcontrast, peripherally enhancing epidural collection from C3-T5 with associated cord compression and T3 osteomyelitis. ⋯ We treated the patient with ceftriaxone for 6 weeks. The patient had a full neurologic recovery and remains without recurrence of infection 11 months postoperatively. Healthy patients without obvious risk factors may present with SEA, highlighting the need for atypical cases such as these to be brought to clinicians' attention.