Multiple Tumor-Associated Intracranial Aneurysms Adjacent to a Suprasellar Germ Cell Tumor: Case Report and Review of Literature

Abstract

Introduction: Tumor-associated intracranial aneurysms are rare and not well understood.

Case presentation: We describe a 4-year-old female with multiple intracranial aneurysms intimately associated with a suprasellar germ cell tumor (GCT). We provide the clinical history, medical, and surgical treatment course, as well as a comprehensive and concise synthesis of the literature on tumor-associated aneurysms.

Discussion: We discuss mechanisms for aneurysm formation with relevance to the current case, including cellular and paracrine signaling pertinent to suprasellar GCTs and possible molecular pathways involved. We review the complex multidisciplinary treatment required for complex tumor and cerebrovascular interactions.

Keywords: Brain neoplasm; Intracranial aneurysm; Neuro-oncology; Suprasellar germ cell tumor; Tumor-associated aneurysm.