Skull Base 2007; 17(4): 263
DOI: 10.1055/s-2007-984487
Copyright © 2007 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Commentary “Posterior Cranial Fossa Gangliogliomas”

Chandranath Sen1
  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, St. Luke's Roosevelt Hospital, New York, New York
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Publication History

Publication Date:
17 July 2007 (online)

This is a very well-described case and literature review of an unusual posterior fossa tumor presenting with long-term headache. The tumor failed to be detected by two CTs and was diagnosed with an MRI. Only a subtotal resection was possible, as would be expected in this location. The review of the literature is excellent. In summary, it should be noted that ganglioglioma should be in the differential diagnosis of cerebellar and brainstem intrinsic tumors. No definite distinguishing features on MRI have been found, although they do enhance with gadolinium. Consideration of this tumor may support biopsy of an intrinsic brainstem tumor since the prognosis is good for overall longevity compared with other glial tumors. In their review, the tumor infrequently undergoes malignant degeneration. I commend the authors on their presentation.

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