Multiple cysts in the cerebral white matter: a rare complication of whole brain radiation therapy

J Neurooncol. 2001 May;53(1):51-4. doi: 10.1023/a:1011870013044.

Abstract

We describe a patient with multiple cysts in the cerebral white matter, several years after whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) for a solitary cerebellar metastasis of a lung carcinoma. MR images of the brain show diffuse white matter changes, 1 year after radiation, and cyst formation in the white matter, starting 3.5 years later. We conclude that cysts in the cerebral white matter can be a late stage of white matter damage after whole brain radiation therapy in long-term survivors with brain metastases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / radiotherapy
  • Adenocarcinoma / secondary
  • Adult
  • Brain / pathology
  • Brain / radiation effects
  • Brain Neoplasms / radiotherapy
  • Brain Neoplasms / secondary
  • Central Nervous System Cysts / diagnosis
  • Central Nervous System Cysts / etiology*
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lung Neoplasms / pathology
  • Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / diagnosis
  • Neoplasms, Radiation-Induced / etiology*
  • Radiation Dosage
  • Radiotherapy / adverse effects