Central neurocytoma

A rare type of brain tumor

Central neurocytoma
Neurocytome axiale.jpg
Axial T1-weighted gadolinium-enhanced MRI image showing an enhancing mass with cystic changes consistent with central neurocytoma in the right lateral ventricle.
Synonyms	Intraventricular neurocytoma
Specialty	Oncology, neurosurgery, neuropathology
Symptoms	Headache, nausea, vomiting, visual disturbances, hydrocephalus, seizures
Complications	Obstructive hydrocephalus, recurrence, postoperative complications
Usual onset	Typically in young adults (20–40 years)
Duration	Chronic, may recur
Types	Central and extraventricular neurocytoma
Causes	Unknown; believed to be related to neuronal progenitor cells
Risk factors	No clear environmental or genetic risk factors identified
Diagnosis	MRI, CT scan, biopsy, histopathology with immunohistochemical markers (e.g., synaptophysin positive)
Differential diagnosis	Ependymoma, oligodendroglioma, subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, choroid plexus papilloma
Prevention	None known
Treatment	Surgical resection (gross total or subtotal), radiation therapy for residual or recurrent tumors
Medication	Not typically used; symptomatic treatment for increased intracranial pressure
Prognosis	Generally good with complete resection; 5-year survival ~80–90%
Frequency	Rare; accounts for <1% of all brain tumors
Deaths	Rare with proper treatment

Central neurocytoma is a rare brain tumor that typically arises in the ventricular system of the central nervous system. It is considered a neuroepithelial tumor and is most commonly found in young adults.

Presentation

Central neurocytomas are usually located in the lateral ventricles near the foramen of Monro. Patients often present with symptoms related to increased intracranial pressure, such as headache, nausea, and vomiting. Other symptoms may include vision problems, seizures, and cognitive changes.

Pathology

Central neurocytomas are classified as WHO Grade II tumors, indicating a low-grade malignancy. Histologically, they are composed of small, round cells with uniform nuclei and a moderate amount of cytoplasm. The tumor cells often form clusters and rosettes, resembling oligodendrogliomas. The presence of synaptophysin positivity on immunohistochemistry is a characteristic feature.

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of central neurocytoma is typically made through a combination of neuroimaging and histopathological examination. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred imaging modality, often revealing a well-circumscribed mass in the ventricular system. Computed tomography (CT) scans may show calcifications within the tumor.

Treatment

The primary treatment for central neurocytoma is surgical resection. Complete removal of the tumor is often curative, but in cases where total resection is not possible, radiotherapy may be considered. The role of chemotherapy is limited and not well established.

Prognosis

The prognosis for patients with central neurocytoma is generally favorable, especially when the tumor is completely resected. The recurrence rate is low, and long-term survival is common. However, incomplete resection may lead to recurrence, necessitating further treatment.

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Related pages

• Brain tumor
• Ventricular system
• Neuroepithelial tumor
• Oligodendroglioma