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Management of incidental asymptomatic brain tumors in children is controversial due to lack of clear evidence-based guidelines. We present this systematic review in an attempt to highlight an optimal treatment paradigm.This systematic review was conducted in compliance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines. Databases were searched up to August 2019 using the keywords "incidental," "brain tumor," and "pediatric." Our main focus was on brain lesions suspected for neoplasm, diagnosed incidentally on neuroimaging in an otherwise asymptomatic patient18 years old. Cystic, vascular, and inflammatory brain lesions were excluded.Fourteen studies comprising 308 patients were included. All cases were diagnosed using magnetic resonance imaging. The most common indications for imaging were headache (93; 30%) and trauma (72; 23%). Lesion distribution was supratentorial (179; 58%), infratentorial (121; 40%), and intraventricular (8; 3%). Of 308 cases, 243 (79%) were managed with neuroradiological surveillance and 57 (19%) by upfront surgical excision. Of those managed conservatively, 177 (73%) remained stable within a mean follow-up of 30 months, 54 (22%) progressed, and 12 (5%) spontaneously regressed. Meanwhile, upfront excision achieved complete remission in all 57 cases over a mean follow-up of 68.3 months.A small body of evidence has emerged, highlighting the marked heterogeneity and contradictory results between the available studies, limiting our ability to draw solid conclusions. At this point, the decision between surgery and "watchful waiting" should be tailored on an individual patient basis depending on suspicion of malignancy, clinical or radiologic progression, and parental preference.

The Colloid Cyst Risk Score (CCRS) was devised to identify patients with symptomatic colloid cyst and stratify risk of hydrocephalus. The CCRS considers patient age, presence of headache, colloid cyst diameter, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery hyperintensity, and location within the third ventricle.The purpose of this study was to independently evaluate the validity of the CCRS.Patients with a colloid cyst of the third ventricle were identified retrospectively from institutional billing records and radiology report archives. Patients without a confirmed diagnosis of colloid cyst of the third ventricle or magnetic resonance imaging of the brain were excluded. Data were collected via retrospective chart review.One hundred and fifty-six patients met inclusion and exclusion criteria. In our cohort, the CCRS stratified symptomatic patients and patients with hydrocephalus across all scores (P0.001). From CCRS 2 to 5, the percentage of symptomatic patients increased from 13% to 100%, whereas the percentage of patients with hydrocephalus increased from 8% to 83%. Simple logistic regression showed that total CCRS, headache, axial diameter, fluid-attenuated inversion recovery hyperintensity, and risk zone were all highly predictive of symptomatic status and hydrocephalus (P0.001). Logistic regression with receiver operating curves for the CCRS showed an area under the curve of 0.914 for symptomatic colloid cysts and an area under the curve of 0.892 for colloid cysts with hydrocephalus.Our data analysis validates the predictive value of the CCRS for both symptomatic status and hydrocephalus and supports the use of the CCRS in risk stratification and clinical decision making.

Objective To evaluate and understand the clinical behavior and radiologic correlates of tumors originating from the posterior pituitary gland. To review the management strategy for these rare tumors and add to the limited existing literature. Methods Retrospective review of 8 cases (5 pituicytomas, 2 spindle cell oncocytomas, and 1 granular cell tumor) managed at our institution between 2004 and 2019. The patients' clinical course, histologic features, and radiologic findings were reviewed. Their management and long-term follow-up is presented and compared with the literature. Results Long-term follow-up ranged from 1 to 9 years. There was 1 recurrence in a patient with spindle cell oncocytoma, and this was treated with radiotherapy. The endoscopically managed cases resulted in complete tumor excision with no recurrence. Conclusions Epidemiologic data on primary tumors of the neurohypophysis is limited because of the rarity of these tumors. This study adds to the literature that these tumors behave as World Health Organization grade I tumors, although close follow-up is recommended as a few cases have shown recurrence. The endoscopic approach resulted in better gross total tumor resection rate in this series.

An intracranial aneurysm in a pituitary adenoma (PA) is not uncommon; however, preoperative angiography is not clinically used as a routine screening test for PA patients. Therefore an intracranial aneurysm is often missed while diagnosing PA patients. When an aneurysm is missed in patients with pituitary tumors, the supporting power by the tumor to the blood vessels or aneurysm will disappear when the tumor is removed and patients may suffer intraoperative or postoperative aneurysm rupture, which may lead to fatal, catastrophic hemorrhage. Herein, we report a case of a PA patient with the signal shadow of vessel flow void, observed vaguely in the right internal carotid artery cavernous segment on magnetic resonance imaging, and a small aneurysm was found via digital subtraction angiography. In order to ensure the safety of surgery, we first performed embolization of the aneurysm and then resected the tumor.

Background Incidentally discovered diffusely infiltrating low-grade gliomas (iDLGGs) are rare findings on neuroimaging that pose a challenge to neurosurgeons. There is a paucity of data regarding the natural history of these lesions, and thus management is controversial. We characterize the growth rates and patterns of iDLGGs in a cohort of patients who underwent serial magnetic resonance imaging before surgical treatment. Methods We performed a retrospective review of all adult patients (≥18 years old) with diffuse low-grade glioma diagnosed at our institution between April 2004 and April 2016. iDLGG was defined as any lesion discovered on computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging performed for reasons and/or symptoms not attributable to the lesion and confirmed on histopathology as low-grade glioma. Tumor growth rates and patterns of growth were analyzed in patients who had serial imaging available. Results Inclusion criteria were met by 15 patients. Mean velocity of diametric expansion was 2.93 mm/year. Of 15 patients, 11 (73.3%) had tumors with an exponential growth pattern, and 4 (26.7%) had a linear growth pattern. Initial tumor volume was positively correlated (r = 0.78) with velocity of diametric expansion. Conclusions iDLGGs grow over time, and most exhibit an exponential pattern of growth. Tumor volume at the time of diagnosis is predictive of a faster growth rate, but not the pattern of growth.

Background Meningocele manque (MM) is characterized by tethering of the spinal cord, nerve roots, or filum terminale by fibrous attachments formed by atrophic or incomplete meningoceles. Patients with MM can present with symptoms of tethered cord syndrome (TCS). Case Description We present the case of an MM discovered incidentally during microsurgical resection of filum terminale for occult TCS. The MM was not visible on the preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies. After L2-L3 laminotomy, an extradural mass was appreciated adherent to the spinal dura, which was found to be an MM. The nerve roots of the cauda equina were found to protrude through the dura, consistent with tethered cauda equina. After microsurgical resection of the filum terminale, the tethered cauda nerve roots were stimulated, and redundant electromyographic signals were detected at both the left- and the right-sided muscles of the lower extremities. Microsurgical repair of the MM was performed, assuming that the patient's symptoms of TCS would also be explained by the MM and that her symptoms would likely have been incompletely addressed by filum terminale release alone. A review of the preoperative 3-dimensional constructive interference in steady state MRI sequence revealed pathological features at the L2-L3 level suspicious for our intraoperative findings of an MM. Conclusions Surgeons planning filum terminale release for occult TCS should always be aware of the possibility of associated pathological features of tethering that might be overlooked. In retrospect, the detection of MM was enabled by the high-resolution 3-dimensional constructive interference in steady state MRI sequence. This finding advocates for the use of high-resolution MRI for patients undergoing evaluation for occult TCS to detect pathological features that might otherwise be undetected.

Background Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) has become an increasingly popular procedure for the treatment of epilepsy and depression. Significant complications or side effects associated with VNS surgery may result from either the inadvertent direct injury to the vagus nerve as part of the surgical approach, placement of the electrode, or the concomitant stimulation of vagal efferent fibers. To mitigate these effects, the recognition of anatomic variants that may place the nerve at increased risk is necessary. Case Description During microsurgical dissection of the carotid sheath for the implantation of a vagus nerve stimulator in a 17-year-old male patient with refractory epilepsy, additional nonidentified nerve tissue was found running parallel to the vagus nerve. These fibers were two thirds of the thickness of the vagus nerve and ran medial to it, from the most superior to the most inferior aspect of the carotid sheath dissection, found at a distance of at least 4 cm in a craniocaudal direction. This duplicated nerve did not appear to branch from the vagal trunk nor exit the sheath but rather paralleled the course of the vagus nerve. The parallel course and the proximity of the unidentified nerve make this structure likely to be a duplicated vagus nerve. Conclusions This is the first reported case of cervical vagus nerve duplication presented in the literature. Surgeons performing VNS implantations should be cognizant of this potential anomaly in order to avoid inadvertent injury to the nerve.

Background With advances in imaging techniques, encephaloceles, meningoceles, and meningoencephaloceles are occasionally discovered incidentally. These can be located in anterior cranial fossa (ACF), mostly protruding into sphenoid and ethmoid sinuses, or middle cranial fossa (MCF), protruding into the temporal bone. We reviewed a large series of cranial computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans to identify the prevalence of asymptomatic encephaloceles, meningoceles, and meningoencephaloceles and describe their outcome. Methods We retrospectively reviewed a database of all magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography scans done at Weill Cornell Medicine for any reason between 2003 and 2018. Encephaloceles, meningoceles, or meningoencephaloceles were confirmed on 72 scans. Of these, chart reviews were performed to identify incidentally discovered cases with symptoms other than cerebrospinal fluid leak, and chart reviews and phone calls were conducted to determine patient demographics, treatment, and outcome. Results There were 18 incidental cases for a prevalence of 0.0074%, of which 6 were located in ACF, and 12 were located in MCF. The mean age for ACF cases was 39 ± 15.9 years and for MCF cases was 49.5 ± 19.8 years. There were no leaks in any cases after the encephaloceles were discovered. Eleven of 12 (91.6%) MCF cases were treated conservatively, while 3 of 6 (50%; P = 0.083) ACF cases were treated surgically. Conclusions This study showed that encephaloceles, meningoceles, and meningoencephaloceles without cerebrospinal fluid leak or meningitis in MCF were more often conservatively managed with observation only, whereas these entities in ACF were often repaired prophylactically. Incidentally discovered encephaloceles have a relatively benign natural history and do not precipitously leak.

OBJECTIVE Colloid cysts (CCs) are histologically benign lesions that carry the risk of causing obstructive hydrocephalus. The indication for surgery for symptomatic cysts is unquestioned; however, the management of incidentally detected lesions has remained controversial. We independently evaluated the CC risk score (CCRS) as a useful risk stratification scheme. METHODS The demographics, imaging characteristics, and clinical presentations of 103 patients with CC during a 10-year period were correlated with symptoms and the occurrence of hydrocephalus. The discriminate capacity of the CCRS was quantified and a decision algorithm formulated. RESULTS The correlates of symptoms included age

Introduction Clinoid segment aneurysms are cerebral vascular lesions recently described in the neurosurgical literature. They arise from the clinoid segment of the internal carotid artery, which is the segment limited rostrally by the dural carotid ring and caudally, by the carotid-oculomotor membrane. Even although clinoid segment aneurysms represent a common incidental finding in magnetic resonance studies, its prevalence has not been yet reported. Objective To determine the prevalence of incidental clinoid segment saccular aneurysms diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging as well as their anatomic architecture and their association with smoking, arterial hypertension, age, and sex of patients. Methods A total of 500 patients were prospectively studied with magnetic resonance imaging time-of-flight sequence and angioresonance with contrast material, to search for incidental saccular intracranial aneurysms. The site of primary interest was the clinoid segment, but the presence of aneurysms in any other location was determined for comparison. The relation among the presence of clinoid segment aneurysms, demographic factors, and secondary diagnosis of arterial hypertension, smoking, and other vascular/neoplastic cerebral lesions was analyzed. Results We found a global prevalence of incidental aneurysms of 7% (95% confidence interval, 5–9), with a prevalence of clinoid segment aneurysms of 3% (95% confidence interval, 2–4). Univariate logistic regression analysis showed a statistically significant relationship among incidental aneurysms, systemic arterial hypertension (P = 0.000), and smoking (P = 0.004). Conclusions In the studied population, incidental clinoid segment aneurysms constitute the variety with highest prevalence.

Objective Acquired anomalies of the dural venous sinuses (DVS) have been correlated extensively with the development of dural arteriovenous fistulas (DAVFs). Despite the known similarities of DAVFs' pathogenesis with that of arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), the relationship of venous sinuses anomalies with AVMs scarcely has been studied. We aimed to investigate whether patients with AVM show a greater prevalence of congenital DVS anomalies. We hypothesized that these congenital anomalies trigger AVM development during early childhood just as acquired DVS anomalies trigger DAVFs formation during adulthood. Methods Angiographic anomalies of the brain venous sinuses were studied in a cohort of 45 consecutive patients with AVM and compared with the angiographic; venous sinus anomalies of a control group formed by a second consecutive; series of 45 patients with subarachnoid hemorrhage. Results Congenital anomalies of any DVS were more frequent in patients with AVM than in the control group (49.8% vs. 22.2%; P = 0.015). Congenital abnormalities of the superior sagittal sinus not only were more frequent in patients with AVM (27% vs. 6.7%; P = 0.021) but seemed also related to the AVM location: in 5 of the 6 AVM cases with unilateral superior sagittal sinus aplasia, the AVM was ipsilateral to the venous anomaly. Conclusions Patients with AVM have a greater likelihood of congenital anomalies of any DVS. These anomalies seem to be related also to the AVM location. These findings suggest that congenital anomalies of DVS may be related to the development of AVMs.

Background The use of combined positron emission tomography/computed tomography for staging in patients with cancer and the widespread use of magnetic resonance imaging has led to increased detection of incidental sellar masses. The imaging findings can be suggestive of a benign pituitary tumor, but metastasis can never be completely ruled out with noninvasive work-up. Appropriate diagnosis of sellar masses is critical, as the treatment paradigm might change in the presence of a pituitary metastasis. Definitive tissue diagnosis might prevent unnecessary radiotherapy to the skull base or the need for systemic treatment when benign pituitary disease is confirmed. Methods A retrospective chart review from 2010 to 2015 of all patients with recently diagnosed cancer and undergoing surgery for sellar region masses was performed. Results There were 9 patients (3 female and 6 male) identified. Lung cancer was the primary condition in 4 patients; the remaining 5 patients had breast cancer, follicular thyroid cancer, cutaneous melanoma, colorectal carcinoma, and renal cell carcinoma. On final pathology, the sellar mass was a benign pituitary adenoma in 5 patients, metastatic cancer in 3 patients, and a granular cell tumor in 1 patient. Conclusions Surgical resection of a sellar mass in patients with known cancer helps in the definitive diagnosis, relieves compressive symptoms, and avoids unnecessary empiric radiotherapy in cases of confirmed benign pituitary disease.

Background Classification of cerebrovascular malformations has revealed intermediary lesions that warrant further review owing to their unusual presentation and management. We present 2 cases of arteriovenous malformation (AVM) associated with a developmental venous anomaly (DVA), and discuss the efficacy of previously published management strategies. Methods Two cases of AVMs associated with DVA were identified, and a literature search for published cases between 1980 and 2016 was conducted. Patient demographic data and clinical features were documented. Results In case 1, a 29-year-old female presenting with parenchymal hemorrhage and left homonymous hemianopia was found to have a right parieto-occipital AVM fed from the anterior cerebral, middle cerebral, and posterior cerebral arteries, with major venous drainage to the superior sagittal sinus. In case 2, imaging in a 34-year-old female evaluated for night tremors and incontinence revealed a left parietal AVM with venous drainage to the superior sagittal sinus. Including our 2 cases, 22 cases of coexisting AVMs and DVAs have been reported in the literature. At presentation, 68% had radiographic evidence of hemorrhage. Stereotactic radiosurgery was performed in 7 cases, embolization in 6 cases, surgical resection in 4 cases, and multimodal therapy in 5 cases. Radiography at follow-up demonstrated successful AVM obliteration in 67% of cases (12 of 18). Conclusions Patients with coexisting AVMs and DVAs tend to have a hemorrhagic presentation. Contrary to traditional AVM management, in these cases it is important to preserve the draining vein via the DVA to ensure a safe, sustained circulatory outflow of the associated brain parenchyma while achieving safe AVM obliteration.

Although new imaging tools have been developed for the detection of smaller aneurysms, angiographically negative microaneurysms are still encountered during cerebral microsurgery. Currently, only limited information regarding incidence and efficacy of treatment of these microaneurysms is available.We investigated the incidence and treatment of incidental microaneurysms (IMAs) in the last 5 years. IMAs are unidentifiable and invisible on preoperative angiography, but are detected during microvascular surgery. The inclusion criteria were aneurysm cases treated with microsurgery via transsylvian approaches, and those undergoing preoperative digital subtraction angiography.This study enrolled 484 surgical cases (248 cases of subarachnoid hemorrhage and 236 cases of unruptured aneurysms) in 460 patients, and 33 tiny aneurysms were found in 31 operative cases (6.4% incidence per operation). The most typical type was located on another branching site of the middle cerebral artery found during neck clipping of the middle cerebral artery bifurcation aneurysm. A patient with multiple aneurysms presented a statistically significant risk (375/78 vs. 15/16; P0.001) of IMA identification. IMAs were treated by clipping and wrapping in 18 and 15 cases, respectively, without complications.This study revealed a 6.4% incidence of IMAs; however, this could be underestimated because of the limited range of inspection. Early detection of an IMA through careful inspection during microvascular surgery could be beneficial, especially in patients with multiple aneurysms.

Background Little literature is available on mechanical thrombus aspiration in acute ischemic stroke with coincident ipsilateral unruptured aneurysm, especially with aneurysm proximal to the occlusion site. In this report, we describe a case of ischemic stroke in a patient with acute occlusion of M1 segment of the middle cerebral artery with coincident ipsilateral internal carotid artery−posterior communicating artery aneurysm who was successfully treated by mechanical clot retrieval using the Sofia (6F) PLUS technique (MicroVention Terumo, Tustin, California, USA). Case Description A 52-year-old woman presented at our hospital 6 hours after sudden onset of dysarthria and right limb hemiplegia on waking up in the morning. She was managed using a direct aspiration first pass technique for distal middle cerebral artery mechanical aspiration using the Sofia (6F) PLUS catheter. The thrombus was manually aspirated in 2 minutes, and Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction scale 3 flow was restored. Next, LVIS (MicroVention Terumo, Tustin, California, USA) stent-assisted coiling of the aneurysm of the posterior communicating segment of the left internal carotid artery was immediately undertaken. The National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale score was 4 at day 1 and 0 at day 7 postoperatively. No device-related or catheter-related complications occurred. Conclusions Ischemic stroke patients with coincident aneurysm are at increased risk of aneurysmal rupture and should be managed with tailored endovascular strategies. Our case shows that a direct aspiration first pass technique using the Sofia (6F) PLUS catheter provides a safe, effective approach for thrombus aspiration in stroke patients.

Background Cavernous hemangiomas arising in the extraaxial space are rarely encountered, often mimicking other more common pathologies. Furthermore, multiple coexisting lesions and posterior fossa involvement are scarcely reported. Herein, we present the case of a patient with concurrent frontal bone and posterior fossa extraaxial cavernous hemangiomas. We also review the challenges associated with the diagnosis and management of these entities. Case Description An otherwise healthy 41-year-old gentleman presented with a 7-month history of a progressive right forehead mass. Imaging demonstrated a right frontal bone mass and an incidentally noted transverse sinus–based mass. The patient opted for surgical resection of both lesions. A right frontal craniotomy was performed to remove the bony lesion, followed by a suboccipital approach for the dural-based mass. There were no significant complications intraoperatively, and gross total resection was achieved for both lesions. Final pathology for each was consistent with cavernous hemangioma. Conclusions Extraaxial cavernous hemangiomas are uncommon clinical entities that are challenging to distinguish from other diseases. If intraoperative complications can be avoided, treatment with surgical resection often offers excellent patient outcomes.

Background Pituitary adenomas (PA) are usually benign neoplasms. Chiari I malformation (CIM) is an uncommon finding. Isolated cases associating functional PA and CIM have been reported. The concomitant presence of a nonfunctional PA and a CIM has not yet been described in the literature. Case Description We present the case of a 35-year-old patient whose symptoms were compatible with CIM. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain, with and without contrast material, confirmed the CIM and incidentally encountered a PA. The patient was treated initially for her PA through an endoscopic endonasal approach with complete tumor resection, confirming a nonfunctional PA. Posterior fossa decompression was successfully accomplished 3 months later. The patient has been followed up for 5 years and has been free of symptoms, with no recurrence of her PA. This represents the first reported case of a nonfunctional PA with a concomitant CIM. Conclusion This is the first reported case of a concomitant CIM and a nonfunctional PA. We discuss our successful management and conduct a systematic review of the literature to provide the most up-to-date guidance on managing these singular cases with concomitant pathologic conditions.

Background The presence of an anterior communicating artery blister-like aneurysm in the setting of a craniopharyngioma has never been reported to our knowledge. Case Description This patient was admitted to our service for an untreated craniopharyngioma resection. An anterior interhemispheric approach with right frontal craniotomy was performed and a blister-like aneurysm of the anterior communicating artery was found during the surgery. After the tumor was completely resected, a suturing technique was used for the aneurysm. In this article, we are going to present this rare case and discuss the potential pathogeny of the aneurysm. Conclusions We hypothesized that cystic craniopharyngioma may rupture spontaneously. The cystic fluid accumulated in the lower subarachnoid space due to gravity, and it may lead to local vascular cytotoxic and inflammatory reactions which may result in the vascular wall remodeling and lead to the reconstructed vascular wall weakness.

Background The availability of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has led to an increase in the detection of pituitary incidentaloma (PI). However, there are no robust data on surgical treatment of PI on which to base therapeutic recommendations. This study was performed to investigate the significance of surgery for asymptomatic nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma (NFPA) among PIs. Methods A total of 180 patients that underwent tumor resection of pituitary adenoma via the transsphenoidal approach between 2005 and 2017 were reviewed. Thirty-three consecutive patients with subjectively asymptomatic NFPA were included in this study. Our surgical indications for asymptomatic NFPAs were categorized as follows: macroadenoma with optic chiasma compression (group A, n = 14), solid tumor ≥2 cm in size (group B, n = 7), and tumor growth on follow-up MRI (group C, n = 12). The clinical outcomes were analyzed accordingly. Results Seven patients (50%) in group A showed subjective improvement of visual function after tumor resection even though they had no complaints preoperatively. On the other hand, no changes occurred in any cases in group B or group C. Although there were no critical complications in this series, the incidence of nonnegligible nasal complications was relatively high (24.2%) and may decrease the patient's quality of life. Conclusions Surgery should be recommended for asymptomatic NFPA with optic chiasma compression to improve visual outcome. On the other hand, immediate intervention for other asymptomatic NFPA to reduce the likelihood of the appearance of tumor-related symptoms remains questionable considering its invasiveness to the nose.

Background Meningocele and meningoencephalocele of the lateral wall of the sphenoidal sinus (LWSS) are rare lesions, crossing the borders of multiple disciplines such as ear-nose-throat, maxillofacial, and neurologic surgery. We reviewed our surgical experience to analyze the role of the endoscopic endonasal approach and consider these pathologies from different perspectives. Methods All consecutive cases of meningocele and meningoencephalocele of LWSS operated through an endoscopic endonasal approach from 1998 to 2015 in our institutions were collected. Medical history, focusing on previous episodes of cerebrospinal fluid leak, meningitis or seizures, was considered. The outcome was assessed considering the medical condition and the postoperative neuroimaging. Results The series includes 23 patients (7 male, 16 female). Mean age was 52 years (26–73 years). Eleven cases were meningoencephaloceles and 12 meningoceles. A clear cerebrospinal fluid leak occurred on in 19 patients and was associated with meningitis in 3. Two were presenting a history of epilepsy. No complications were observed, but 1 case presented seizures on waking. At follow-up (mean 84 months, 4–167) each patient is in good clinical condition with no further episodes of leaking or seizures. Conclusions Endoscopic endonasal surgery is a safe and effective approach for meningocele and meningoencephalocele of LWSS; it allows resection of herniated tissue and repair of the osteodural defect. The favorable clinical outcome and the possible effectiveness on seizures lead us to support this approach as first minimally invasive treatment also in presence of epilepsy, as a first low risk epilepsy surgical procedure.

Background Disorders related to opioid use account for the most substantial burden of disease attributable to drug use disorders. We aimed to justify if there is an association between either opium consumption or addiction and rupture of intracranial aneurysms. Methods In this case-control study, we enrolled 50 cases with ruptured intracranial aneurysms and 43 control subjects with an incidental finding of an intracranial aneurysm without history of subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH). Four major risk factors of rupture including age, sex, size, and site of aneurysm were matched among both groups. All participants were asked about cigarette smoking state, opium addiction, opium consumption, and duration and route of opium consumption. Eight other trigger factors were assessed in the period soon before SAH (hazard period). The odds ratio (OR) of all factors was calculated separately, and then a logistic regression for the factors with significant odds was calculated. Results Sixty-two percent of cases and 32.6% of control subjects were addicted to opium. The OR for opium consumption in the hazard period was 8.1 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.2–30.1) and for opium addiction was 3.3 (95% CI, 1.4–7.9). Of those trigger factors, cola consumption was included in the logistic regression model. After adjustment, results demonstrated an OR of 9.2 (95% CI, 2.4–34.7) for opium consumption in the hazard period. Conclusions There is an association between opium addiction and opium consumption in the hazard period with the occurrence of aneurysmal SAH. Replication of the study with a larger sample size and conduction of prospective studies is suggested.

Background Meningiomas arising at the pineal region are a rare entity and still represent a great neurosurgical challenge given their deep location and critical neuroanatomic relationships. The optimal surgical approach to treat these lesions is still under debate. Our objective is to review the topographic and diagnostic features of these lesions, which can help to guide an optimal surgical outcome. Methods We present 2 clinical cases of falcotentorial meningiomas successfully treated at our institution (2016–2017) with different surgical approaches. A literature review is performed, and a description of the classification, anatomic relationships, clinical features, diagnosis, and different surgical options and outcomes of these lesions is presented. Results The first patient was treated via a supracerebellar infratentorial approach, and the second patient was treated via a parieto-occipital interhemispheric approach. In both tumors, a gross total resection was achieved with no permanent neurologic deficits. In the literature review, gross total resection rates range from 33% to 100%, with no differences regarding the type of meningioma or the surgical approach performed. Permanent neurologic morbidity varies from 0% to 50%, and mortality rates range from 0% to 23%. The distortion and displacement of the vein of Galen and straight sinus represent the most important feature in the decision of optimal surgical approach. Conclusions Pineal region meningiomas represent very infrequent, challenging lesions, and their description in the literature is scarce. The systematic topographic classification of these tumors and evaluation of the neuroanatomic structures involved are crucial to guide a safe and optimal surgical approach and achieve satisfactory outcomes.

WOS: 000457328100078, PubMed: 31108080, BACKGROUND: Vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty are minimally invasive techniques used to treat vertebral compression fractures. The etiology of vertebral compression fractures varies among patients. Although osteoporosis and trauma are major etiologic factors in patients with a vertebral compression fracture, unexpected results were found in 11 patients in the present study. The aim of the present retrospective study was to determine the incidentally detected pathology results of patients with vertebral fracture treated by vertebroplasty and kyphoplasty. METHODS: From February 2010 to November 2015, 616 patients with a vertebral compression fracture were treated by kyphoplasty and vertebroplasty at our institution. Vertebral biopsies were obtained from 533 patients during a vertebral augmentation technique. The average patient age was 62.4 years. Of the 616 patients, 388 were female and 228 were male. Histological evaluation of the biopsy specimens from the vertebral compression fractures was performed. RESULTS: The biopsy results of 505 patients showed various stages of bone healing. Among these patients, malignancy was identified in 23 patients, and 43 patients had a history of malignancy. In 6 patients, an unsuspected malignancy was found, and 1 patient had Paget's disease. Infection was detected in 4 patients. In our study, the rate of unsuspected malignancy was 1.1%. CONCLUSIONS: Tissue examination is useful and could reveal pathologic fractures. An incidentally detected biopsy result could change the treatment of patients; however, bone biopsy should be reserved for those patients whose preoperative radiological diagnosis raises suspicion of a nonosteoporotic etiology.

Background Castleman disease (CD) is an uncommon disorder of deregulated lymphoproliferation with unicentric (UCD) and multicentric forms based on extent of nodal involvement. Gross resection with histopathologic analysis remains the gold standard for diagnosis of UCD and is curative in most cases. Symptomatic paraspinal UCD is a rare presentation with potentially dangerous complications, and its tendency to mimic more common spinal tumors presents a significant diagnostic challenge. Case Presentation A 25-year-old Hispanic man with no past medical history was evaluated for a known left-sided paraspinal mass that was incidentally discovered during an emergency department work-up for hematuria. Computed tomography on initial presentation revealed a 5.3 cm × 3.3 cm × 4.8 cm heterogeneously enhancing left paraspinal mass adjacent to the T11 vertebral body with tonguelike extension into the T11-T12 neural foramen. Although he remained neurologically intact throughout most of the diagnostic work-up, an inconclusive biopsy, worsening hematuria, and late-onset radiculopathy with severe back pain prompted surgical intervention. Microscopic histomorphology was consistent with CD. He continued to have intermittent hematuria and dysuria postoperatively, but repeat computed tomography at 7 months confirmed no recurrence of the mass. Conclusions Compared with previous reports, our case of postcoital hematuria and radiculopathy accompanying a paraspinal thoracic mass in a young Mexican-American man is a unique presentation. Awareness and early consideration of UCD in the work-up of a paraspinal mass may spare affected patients adverse and dangerous sequelae, such as spinal cord compression and excessive intraoperative hemorrhage.

OBJECTIVE: In recent decades endoscopic techniques have been increasingly used in neurosurgery as they may offer a valuable close-up view of the working area through a minimally invasive surgical corridor. Herein, we present an inexpensive and efficient endoscopic surgical model using a borescope, which was used for a "modified pure endoscopic approach" to the pineal region. METHODS: A borescope video camera was connected to a 16-inch personal computer monitor. A standard midline suboccipital craniotomy was performed on 2 cadaveric heads in the Concorde position. Then, a "borescopic" supracerebellar infratentorial approach was executed, thus reaching the pineal region, which was exposed through an extensive arachnoid dissection. RESULTS: Using the previously described model, we were able to provide excellent exposure of the main neurovascular structures of the pineal region, as shown by the intraoperative videos. In 1 specimen we identified an incidental pineal cyst that was meticulously dissected and removed. CONCLUSIONS: Our proposed "borescopic" surgical model may represent an inexpensive and efficient alternative to conventional endoscopic techniques and could be used for training purposes, as well as even for clinical procedures, after a proper validation, particularly in economically challenging environments.

Background Myofibroblastoma is a rare benign soft tissue tumor comprised of contractile myiod cells mostly in mammary gland. Only 4 prior cases arising in the central nervous system have been reported in the literature. We present a case of myofibroblastoma with a cystic component. Case Description The patient is a 76-year-old man with a history of Parkinson disease. The tumor was found incidentally after a minor fall. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a 6.7-cm well-circumscribed, partly cystic mass with a 2.4-cm calcified central nodule located at the left sylvian fissure. The frontal dural base showed avid enhancing after gadolinium injection. Gross total resection was achieved. The tumor was marked by dense collagenous tissue and bland spindled cells in pathology review. The spindled cells demonstrated positive staining with antibodies to CD34, estrogen receptor, and smooth muscle actin. A blush of immunoreactivity is observed in scattered cells with antibody to progesterone receptor. Patient recovered well postoperatively. Conclusions This is a rare condition of a benign soft tissue tumor of mammary gland presented primarily in the brain. The literature on myofibroblastomas arising in the central nervous system is reviewed.

Background Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common autoimmune and neurodegenerative disease of the central nervous system characterized by inflammatory demyelination, axonal degeneration, and neuronal loss. The exact pathogenesis of MS remains uncertain; however, studies have shown that the development of MS is influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Cerebral aneurysms (CAs) are life-threatening lesions of cerebral vessels characterized by a bulge in the intracranial arterial wall that spontaneously ruptures. It has been hypothesized that patients with MS are at increased risk of developing cerebral aneurysms. This hypothesis can be supported by analyzing the pathogenesis and genetics of the development of MS and CA. To our knowledge, no previous studies have shown an association between MS and CA. Case Description In this report, we performed middle cerebral artery aneurysm clipping for two patients with MS who were referred to our clinic for CA in the bifurcation of middle cerebral artery that was found incidentally on magnetic resonance imaging. We aim to identify any genetic correlation between MS and CA pathogenesis. Conclusion This report suggests a possible genetic association between MS and CAs. The strongest evidence of association was found for the TNFRSF1A gene, a proinflammatory gene that is involved in mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and NF-Kappa B signaling pathways, and has been identified as a candidate gene in the development of MS. MAPKs were also found to be elevated in CAs.

Background Initial staging evaluation of patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) has led increasingly to the diagnosis of brain metastases in patients who are otherwise neurologically asymptomatic. We present our experience treating patients with incidentally identified brain metastases with initial stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) monotherapy and compare outcomes with those of patients treated at our institution with other strategies and with those reported in the literature. Methods We conducted a retrospective outcomes analysis in patients with incidentally identified RCC brain metastasis treated with initial SRS monotherapy. Our radiation oncology and tumor databases were reviewed, identifying 80 patients treated between 1990 and 2006. Results We found 19 patients with asymptomatic, incidentally identified brain metastasis (KPS, 90-100) treated with SRS monotherapy within 60 days of diagnosis. Stereotactic radiosurgery was performed at a mean of 17.8 days from diagnosis to an average of 3.1 lesions (range, 3-11; mean lesion volume, 1.72 cm3; mean total volume, 4.53 cm3). The mean prescription was 21.3 Gy delivered to the mean 59.97% isodose line. The mean survival for these patients was 21.5 months (median, 12.6 months) and was not statistically different from survival in similar patients treated with other therapeutic modalities. Local control was achieved in 95% of patients; distant central nervous system progression occurred in 79% of patients at a mean of 450 days. Conclusions We demonstrate that patients with incidentally identified RCC brain metastases treated with initial SRS monotherapy achieved a survival rate comparable with that of patients managed with standard therapeutic modalities. Our findings suggest that SRS alone is an attractive therapeutic option for patients with incidentally identified brain metastases from RCC.

Background Meningiomas of the foramen magnum are among the most challenging of all skull base lesions. Controversies continue regarding the most appropriate approach to this critical anatomic region. The authors report a first case in English literature about twin meningiomas arising from both sides of the ventrolateral dura at the foramen magnum. Case Description Preoperative imaging showed a solitary mass engulfing the lower medulla. However, intraoperatively a twin mass was discovered. It encased the right side vertebral artery (VA) and abutted the left side. The unilateral far lateral transcondylar approach is not enough to resect both tumors at the same time. However, the far lateral transcondylar approach in both sides may compromise the stability and increase the risk of injury to either side of the neurovascular structures. Conclusions We suggest that resection can be safely achieved via the unilateral far lateral transcondylar approach followed by Gamma Knife radiosurgery (GKRS) or a staged bilateral approach.

Background Neurenteric cysts are rare congenital lesions along the neuroaxis, typically found in the spine, and rarely intracranially. Here, we present 3 patients who presented to our institution during a 6-year period with supratentorial intracranial neurenteric cysts and conduct a comprehensive review of the literature to describe the salient pathology, radiologic features, and clinical issues regarding these lesions. Case Reports Three patients were treated surgically for supratentorial neurenteric cysts. One patient presented in extremis, whereas the others were treated electively. Each patient presented with significantly different signs and symptoms and unique radiologic findings. All patients were neurologically intact after surgery. Conclusions Neurenteric cysts present with a variety of signs and symptoms. Given the increased use of neuroimaging, supratentorial neurenteric cysts may be encountered more frequently and are important to include on the differential diagnosis and managed accordingly. Postoperative seizures occur in more than 20%, even in patients who had no preoperative seizures. Surgery can be performed safely with good neurologic outcomes.

NTRODUCTION Learning from experiencemay be one of themost important and pragmatic tools physicians possess today despite the uncertain nature of science. In today’s scientific world, hysicians constantly address the following question: How does ne deal with something he or she has not experienced or did not xpect? Will the physician be prone to failure regardless as Shaw uggests? Although these questions have confounded health care eams for years, they do have certain weight and relevance when onsidering current ethical and practical dilemmas of physicians anaging “unexpected” or incidental lesions. It is likely that very physician will encounter incidental lesions at some point in is or her career. As the overall number of incidental findings ncreases with the increasing frequency of radiographic scans, hese questions will soon begin to hold more importance and ravity. Specifically in the realm of neuroimaging, our experience with he “unexpected” has been insufficient. Today, there has yet to be consensus on the management of incidental findings found on agnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and different authors have eported various methods of managing these lesions (5). Some authors have suggested a uniform policy for handling incidental findings for all neuroimaging research, although research studies may not be the primary mode of discovery (1). Although most incidental findings on brain MRI are nonurgent (requiring no referral), approximately 1%–2% of these findings require routine or urgent referral to specialists (4). Of the referred patients, patients who present with MRI findings suggestive of low-grade gliomas (LGG) are even rarer with a reported incidence of 0.05% of the healthy population (6). Suspected incidental low-grade

Background Carcinoid tumors are neuroendocrine neoplasms derived from enterochromaffin cells. Central nervous system involvement is rare. The reported cases include metastases to brain or spinal cord, and primary skeletal or extradural disease resulting in compressive myeloradiculopathy. There are 2 previously reported cases of primary intradural extramedullary carcinoid tumor, presenting with compressive symptoms. We report the first case of primary incidental intradural extramedullary carcinoid tumor. Case Description A 68-year-old man was complaining of a 2-month history of left-sided back pain and sciatica; however, he presented with acutely worse symptoms of severe left sciatica. There was no sphincter dysfunction nor power deficit on examination. A magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan of the lumbar spine revealed an L4-5 central disk protrusion causing left L5 nerve root compression, and a heterogeneous enhancing intradural mass at the L2-3 level displacing the cauda equina. An L4-5 microdiscectomy followed by an L2-3 laminectomy and resection of the intradural mass was performed. There was a postoperative left S1 paresthesia that was managed medically; however, the postoperative period was unremarkable. A postoperative MRI of the lumbar spine showed complete resection of the mass. A staging scan revealed an incidental thyroid nodule; however, there was no other disease burden. Histopathology of the resected specimen revealed a primary spinal carcinoid tumor. Conclusions To our knowledge, this is the first reported case of incidental primary intradural spinal carcinoid tumor. Even though intradural spinal carcinoid tumors are exceedingly rare, they should be included in the differential diagnosis of enhancing intradural lesions.

Background A spontaneous fusiform aneurysm in the middle cerebral artery (MCA) can present with both ischemic and hemorrhagic symptoms, but this aneurysm's clinical course and prognosis are unclear because of its rarity. Case Description An asymptomatic fusiform-shaped aneurysm was found in a branch of the right middle cerebral artery (MCA) incidentally during a medical check-up in a 51-year-old woman with no medical history. This aneurysm was followed by annual magnetic resonance imaging with no medical treatment. A distal side of the branch of the MCA harboring the fusiform aneurysm gradually narrowed, and finally occluded 6 years after initial detection. The stump of the branch transformed into an aneurysmal dilatation, which grew for 2 years. To prevent future subarachnoid hemorrhage, surgical intervention was performed. An aneurysmal dilation with a thin wall was found to originate between an intact branch and a funicular occluded branch, which was obliterated with clip application. At 3-year follow-up, no regrowth or de novo aneurysm could be seen. Conclusion This is the first case report in which serial images demonstrate the stepwise occlusion of an artery with fusiform change and the evolution of a stump aneurysm in the MCA over an extended period.