Symptomatic neuroepithelial (colloid) cysts of the third ventricle: a unique case report in nontwin brothers

Article Abstract:

Colloid cysts are tumors which occur in the fluid-filled cavities in the middle of the brain and spinal cord. Most researchers think that the tumor, which is frequently found within the third ventricle in the brain, arises from neuroepithelial cells lining the ventricle, but other suggestions have been put forward. The colloid cysts have traditionally been thought to represent from one-half to two percent of all intracranial tumors. The advent of CT scans, however, has lead to the observation of greater numbers of such cysts, even in individuals who have no symptoms. The actual prevalence of colloid cysts may therefore be greater. Such cysts may not produce symptoms, but they may also increase the pressure within the ventricles. Unless checked, this increased pressure may destroy surrounding brain tissue and result in a largely fluid-filled, or hydrocephalic, brain. The authors present an unusual pair of cases in which a 72-year-old man and his 62-year-old brother developed colloid cysts. CT scan revealed prominent bilateral hydrocephalus in both men. One patient's condition deteriorated after he suffered a grand mal seizure and he died two months later. No neurological cause for his death could be identified. The younger brother remains alive after surgery to extract the contents of the cyst. A review of the medical literature revealed another recent case which involved siblings; identical twin brothers in their thirties developed colloid cysts. In this case, the parents of the twins were first cousins. Taken together, the two sets of cases strongly suggest that there may be a strong genetic component to the development of colloid cyst. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Causes of, Brain, Cysts, Cerebral ventricles, Intracranial pressure

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Malignant transformation of benign cerebellar astrocytoma

Article Abstract:

Cerebellar astrocytoma is one of the most benign brain tumors, and it typically occurs in the first decade of life. The survival rate is roughly 90 percent, even among patients with incomplete surgical removal of the growth. Recurrences within 3 to 5 years can develop, as can late recurrences, although the latter are more unusual. It is rare, however, for a well-differentiated cerebellar astrocytoma to transform into a malignant growth. The case of a 33-year-old man demonstrates, however, that it is not impossible and that long-term follow-up must be a part of patient care in cases of astrocytoma. The patient had undergone surgery for a cerebellar astrocytoma at the age of four years. The tumor, which was a well-differentiated astrocytoma on histologic examination, was partially removed and the patient was given radiotherapy. Twenty-eight years after surgery, the patient developed headaches, weakness, and difficulty walking. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a cerebellar mass. Surgeons partially removed the mass, which proved to be a glioblastoma multiforme. The patient was treated postoperatively with radiation, but he continued to deteriorate and died five months after treatment. Many pediatric malignancies are presumed to be cured if the patient fulfills "Colin's Law", i.e. survives nine months plus his age at diagnosis. The patient described here survived 28 symptom-free years before succumbing to the malignant transformation of a brain tumor. The cause of this transformation was not determined. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Cancer in children, Childhood cancer, Glioblastoma multiforme, Astrocytoma, Astrocytomas

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Neuroepithelial small cell carcinoma of the vagina

Article Abstract:

Small cell vaginal cancers were studied in two women. Until now such small cell carcinomas were generally thought to be a variant of squamous cell carcinomas, which have skin-like scaly characteristics. However, both light and electron microscopy have revealed that these small cell carcinomas are neuroepithelial in origin. This finding indicates that the embryological heritage of small cell carcinoma tissue is the neuroectoderm, which gives rise to sense organs in the skin and mucosa, as well as other structures. Neuroepithelial tumors are quite aggressive, and usually metastasize to distant parts of the body. Consequently, an equally aggressive approach to therapy must be initiated to lengthen patient survival. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Squamous cell carcinoma, Vaginal cancer

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