Pilocytic astrocytoma mimicking craniopharyngioma: a case series

Abstract

Although they are one of the most common brain tumours in childhood, piiocytic astrocytomas are rare in adulthood. We report a series of three piiocytic astrocytomas presenting as an intra/suprasellar mass in the fourth to sixth decades of life. All three radiologically mimicked the appearance of a craniopharyngioma, thus representing a potential radiological and diagnostic pitfall. In this series all three patients underwent successful operative management and have remained well throughout follow-up. The majority of information concerning piiocytic astrocytomas is derived from paediatric populations and so only limited and often conflicting data exist for piiocytic astrocytomas developing in adulthood. Decisions regarding treatment of piiocytic astrocytomas in adults must be made on a multidisciplinary, case-by-case basis.

Supratentorial Pilocytic Astrocytoma Mimicking Convexity Meningioma with Early Anaplastic Transformation: A Case Report

“…Typical radiographic findings of pilocytic astrocytomas are well known. Typical MRI findings of pilocytic astrocytomas are usually an enhancing mass with a non-enhancing cystic component [ 1 8 ]. Also, in general pilocytic astrocytomas are well-circumscribed and round [ 2 ].…”

“…Several supratentorial pilocytic astrocytomas mimicking other intracranial tumors have been reported. Skipworth et al [ 1 ] reported three suprasellar pilocytic astrocytomas mimicking a craniopharyngioma. A review of the literature revealed only one other case of supratentorial pilocytic astrocytoma mimicking a meningioma on preoperative imaging.…”

“…Pilocytic astrocytomas are the most common glial cell neoplasms in children and the most common pediatric cerebellar tumor [ 1 ]. Generally, they originate from the cerebellum, brainstem, and optic nerve [ 1 2 ]. However, lobar tumors have been reported rarely [ 1 ].…”

“…Generally, they originate from the cerebellum, brainstem, and optic nerve [ 1 2 ]. However, lobar tumors have been reported rarely [ 1 ]. Most pilocytic astrocytomas are benign, and anaplastic or malignant transformation is uncommon unless there is a history of radiation exposure [ 3 ].…”

A large cavernous malformation of the third ventricle floor: A case report

“…Tumor biomarkers, such as beta-human chorionic gonadotropin and alpha-fetoprotein, may help to diagnose nongerminomatous germ cell tumors such as embryonal carcinoma, choriocarcinoma, endodermal sinus tumor. Although pilocytic astrocytomata are rare in adults, they mimic the appearance of craniopharyngiomata, which is a potential radiological and diagnostic pitfall [13].…”