Bobble-head doll syndrome due to a suprasellar arachnoid cyst: endoscopic treatment in two cases

Childs Nerv Syst. 2004 Oct;20(10):770-3. doi: 10.1007/s00381-004-0925-3.

Abstract

Object: We report two cases of bobble-head doll syndrome associated with a large suprasellar arachnoid cyst successfully treated with a minimally invasive endoscopic approach.

Methods: The clinical history, surgical treatment and results of two children, a 9-year-old boy and a 1-year-old girl, both presenting the clinical features of the bobble-head doll syndrome, are described. As a first procedure, a ventriculo-cystostomy was endoscopically performed in both patients, obtaining either resolution of the symptoms or notable cyst reduction. In the girl, a re-closure of the stoma, with cyst re-expansion, was observed after 18 months. She then underwent a second procedure, a ventriculo-cysto-cisternostomy, with a good result. After 3 years' follow-up, the neurological condition of both patients remains good with complete resolution of abnormal head movement.

Conclusion: In our opinion, endoscopic treatment is the procedure of choice for this condition, as it involves few complications and gives good results.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Arachnoid Cysts / complications*
  • Arachnoid Cysts / surgery
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Shunts / methods
  • Child
  • Endoscopy / methods
  • Female
  • Head Movements*
  • Humans
  • Hydrocephalus / etiology*
  • Infant
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Male
  • Movement Disorders / etiology*
  • Movement Disorders / surgery