Hydrocephalus secondary to tumors of the posterior fossa: review article

Abstract

Posterior fossa (PF) tumors are a common cause of obstructive hydrocephalus. In adults, metastases are the most common tumors in PF. Among the primary neoplasms, the most common are meningioma, vestibular schwannoma, and hemangioblastoma. Glial tumors are the most prevalent in children and adolescents, followed by medulloblastoma and ependymomas. Surgical treatments are of choice in hydrocephalus due to posterior fossa tumors (HPFt). Tumor resection may be sufficient as monotherapy in adults with asymptomatic hydrocephalus and in others with a low risk of postoperative hydrocephalus. Endoscopic third ventriculoscisternostomy (ETV) is the choice for prophylaxis and / or treatment of HPFt in children-adolescents and adults. Ventriculoperitoneal bypass is beneficial in children-adolescents and adults with relative contraindications for EVT and / or unfavorable anatomy for it. External ventriculostomy is useful in adults who require emergency cerebrospinal fluid drainage.