Microsurgical excision of a pontomedullary epidermoid cyst with prepontine extension: case report

Neurosurgery. 1996 Mar;38(3):579-83; discussion 582-3. doi: 10.1097/00006123-199603000-00032.

Abstract

We report the case of a patient with a pontomedullary epidermoid cyst extending into the prepontine cistern. The patient presented with a progressive VIth nerve palsy, ataxia, and headache. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a well-defined pontomedullary tumor with a high fat content. We excised the lesion using a microsurgical approach through the floor of the fourth ventricle. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging confirmed the removal of both intra- and extra-axial components. We discuss the anatomic configuration, radiological appearances, and management of this unusual pathological finding.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Brain Diseases / pathology
  • Brain Diseases / surgery*
  • Epidermal Cyst / pathology
  • Epidermal Cyst / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Medulla Oblongata / pathology
  • Medulla Oblongata / surgery*
  • Microsurgery*
  • Neurologic Examination
  • Pons / pathology
  • Pons / surgery*