Pilomyxoid astrocytoma in the adult cerebellum

J Clin Neurosci. 2016 May:27:170-3. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2015.11.008. Epub 2016 Jan 14.

Abstract

Pilomyxoid astrocytoma (PMA) is a recently recognised World Health Organization (WHO) Grade II tumour that was previously characterised as a subtype of the WHO Grade I pilocytic astrocytoma (PA). PMA has a histological appearance distinct from PA and a poorer prognosis due to its greater propensity for local recurrence and cerebrospinal dissemination. Although originally considered a paediatric tumour involving mainly the hypothalamic and chiasmatic region, reports of the lesion occurring in the adult population and other areas of the neuroaxis are emerging. We review the literature on PMA within the adult population and present the first case of PMA in the cerebellum of an adult female.

Keywords: Adult; Cerebellum; Pilocytic astrocytoma; Pilomyxoid astrocytoma.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Astrocytoma / pathology*
  • Astrocytoma / surgery*
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Cranial Fossa, Posterior / surgery
  • Craniotomy
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Neoplasm Recurrence, Local
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Prognosis
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Young Adult