Intraventricular Tumors

Intraventricular Tumors

Intraventricular Tumors

left lateral ventricle brain tumor symptoms

What are Intraventricular Tumors?

Intraventricular tumors are a diverse group of tumors that originate within the ventricles of the brain, which are fluid-filled spaces responsible for the production and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). These tumors can occur in individuals of all ages, although some types are more commonly observed in specific age groups.

There are various types of intraventricular tumors, including ependymomas, choroid plexus tumors, central neurocytomas, subependymal giant cell tumors, and others. Each of these tumors arises from different types of cells within the ventricles, leading to distinct clinical presentations, characteristics, and treatment approaches.

Types of Intraventricular Tumors

Ependyomas

Ependymomas are one of the most common types of intraventricular tumors. They originate from ependymal cells that line the ventricles. Ependymomas can occur at any age but are more frequently diagnosed in children and young adults. These tumors can obstruct CSF flow, leading to increased intracranial pressure and symptoms such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, and visual disturbances. Surgical resection is the primary treatment for ependymomas, often supplemented with radiation therapy.

Choroid Plexus Tumors

Choroid plexus tumors arise from specialized cells that produce CSF within the ventricles. They are more commonly found in infants and children. Choroid plexus papillomas are typically benign, whereas choroid plexus carcinomas are malignant. These tumors can cause overproduction of CSF, leading to hydrocephalus and associated symptoms. Surgical resection followed by chemotherapy or radiation therapy is the standard treatment approach.

Central Neurocytomas

Central neurocytomas are rare tumors that primarily affect young adults. They arise from neuronal cells within the ventricles. These tumors are usually slow-growing and may cause symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and cognitive changes. Surgical resection is the primary treatment, and adjuvant therapies may be considered in cases with residual or recurrent tumors.

Subependymal Giant Cell Tumors

Subependymal giant cell tumors (SEGAs) are benign tumors that often develop in individuals with tuberous sclerosis, a genetic disorder. SEGAs arise from cells lining the walls of the ventricles. These tumors can lead to hydrocephalus and may cause neurological symptoms. Surgical resection or targeted therapy with mTOR inhibitors is typically employed.

Treatment of Intraventricular Tumors

Minimally invasive endoscopic keyhole surgery is now possible for most Intraventricular tumors

Intraventricular tumors include benign and malignant tumors that can be treated with unique, minimally invasive surgical approaches.

These tumors include gliomas, metastatic tumors, central neurocytomas, subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGA), meningiomas, ependymomas, subependymomas, germinomas and germ cell tumors, choroid plexus papillomas and carcinomas and medulloblastomas (PNET).

The surgical approach is dependent on the tumor type, size and location specific to the ventricle.

Doctors and Specialists Who Treat Intraventricular Tumors

This post was last modified on November 28, 2024 5:29 am