Colloid Cyst

Colloid cysts are mucous-like masses that most commonly appear near the center of the brain, at the point where the lateral ventricles — two of the brain's natural fluid chambers — drain into the third ventricle.

Colloid cysts account for ~2% of primary brain tumors. The majority of cases are identified in early middle age (30-40 years of age) although 8% of cases may be diagnosed in children.

Patients commonly have headaches, gait disturbances, and short-term memory disturbances. Sudden weakness in lower limbs with falls (DROP ATTACKS) is a typical presentation. Sometimes, it can even lead to the death of a patient.

Diagnosis: It is diagnosed with the help of a CT scan and MRI brain.

Treatment: In many cases, patients may be managed conservatively, but surgery is the treatment for symptomatic patients. It can be done either through open cranial microsurgery or a minimally invasive endoscopic approach.

With high-definition endoscopes available nowadays, colloid cysts can be removed safely and with minimally invasive techniques.

Our patient: This 34-year-old gentleman had a history of severe headaches not relieved by any medication. He was operated on for vp shunt somewhere else but the colloid cyst was not dealt with. We at our center removed the cyst completely, endoscopically with a minimally invasive approach and the patient had a dramatic relief in his headache.

Category:Colloid Cyst