Minim Invasive Neurosurg 2010; 53(5/06): 273-274
DOI: 10.1055/s-0030-1267232
Case Report

© Georg Thieme Verlag KG Stuttgart · New York

Hemorrhagic Colloid Cyst with Sudden Coma

U. Godano1 , R. Ferrai1 , V. Meleddu1 , M. Bellinzona1
  • 1Department of Neurosurgery, Brotzu Hospital, Cagliari, Italy
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
07 February 2011 (online)

Abstract

Background: Third ventricle colloid cysts are regarded as benign lesions. They may, however, present with dramatic and rapidly deteriorating neurological signs, leading to sudden death. Although the exact cause of this clinical course is unknown, acute hydrocephalus caused by occlusion of Monro's foramina has been suggested. This, in turn, may be the result of acute cyst swelling, which can exceptionally be due to an intralesional hemorrhage.

Case Report: This report illustrates the case of a young patient who deteriorated to sudden coma and was found to have a hemorrhagic colloid cyst of the third ventricle. This was removed via a purely endoscopic technique. Although the radiological results were excellent, the clinical outcome was poor.

Conclusions: This case suggests once again the importance of the early recognition of colloid cysts of the third ventricle for appropriate treatment before potentially irreversible neurological deterioration sets in.

References

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Correspondence

U. GodanoMD 

Department of Neurosurgery

Brotzu Hospital

Via Peretti 1

09134 Cagliari

Italy

Email: umbertogodano@aob.it

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