Ependymal cyst with hemorrhage in the cerebellopontine angle

J Clin Neurosci. 2009 Jan;16(1):127-9. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2008.02.019. Epub 2008 Nov 14.

Abstract

Ependymal cysts are rare intracranial neoplasms. These lesions occur in the cerebral parenchyma, subarachnoid space, and juxtaventricular, intraspinal, and intramedullary regions. They occur extremely rarely in the cerebellopontine angle (CPA). There are no prior reports of CPA ependymal cyst with hemorrhage. We report a 79-year-old woman who experienced sudden onset of dizziness and vomiting. A CT scan and MRI revealed a cystic lesion with internal hemorrhage in the left CPA. Surgical resection via a left retrosigmoid approach was performed. Pathological examination revealed that the lesion was an ependymal cyst. To our knowledge, this is the sixth reported case of an ependymal cyst located in the CPA; however, our case had the unique presenting feature of hemorrhage. We review the clinical manifestation, pathogenesis, and management of these cysts.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Central Nervous System Cysts / complications*
  • Cerebellar Diseases / complications*
  • Cerebellopontine Angle / pathology*
  • Ependyma / pathology*
  • Female
  • Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein / metabolism
  • Hemorrhage / complications*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Substances

  • Glial Fibrillary Acidic Protein