Open AccessOptic Nerve Pilocytic Astrocytoma With Leptomeningeal Dissemination – Case Report
Author(s) -
Claudia Raluca Mărginean,
Patricia Maria Luminița Simu,
Robert Aurelian Tiucă,
Alexandru Mariean-Șchiopu,
Iunius Simu
Publication year - 2021
Publication title -
bulletin of the "transilvania" university of braşov. series vi, medical sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2065-2224
pISSN - 2065-2216
DOI - 10.31926/but.ms.2021.63.14.1.4
Subject(s) - pilocytic astrocytoma , medicine , radiation therapy , astrocytoma , optic nerve , surgery , radiology , glioma , ophthalmology , cancer research
"Pilocytic astrocytoma is the most frequent type of brain tumor diagnosed during childhood. It originates from midline structures and is associated with good prognosis, with an estimated survival rate higher than 95%. We presented the case of a male patient diagnosed at the age of 6 with pilocytic astrocytoma located in the right optic nerve with associated chiasm infiltration. Incomplete resection of the tumoral process was performed, without any additional therapy, as association of chemotherapy or radiotherapy is still controversial among specialists. The patient had an unpredictable severe evolution of the disease, with associated leptomeningeal dissemination and extreme worsening of neurological and endocrinologic status. Six years after diagnosis, despite complex medical efforts the patient died. This article raises awareness of leptomeningeal dissemination risk, a rare evolution in cases of pilocytic astrocytoma. Early diagnosis, complete tumoral resection, tumor location and careful long-term follow up are key factors for long-term survival. "