Management of Subependymal Giant Cell Astrocytomas in Patients with Tuberous Sclerosis

Abstract

Purpose: Subependymal giant cell astrocytomas (SEGAs) are a well-known complication of tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC). Treatment experience has been accumulated for several years. The aim of this study was to review our experiences in treatment of SEGAs and prognosis. Method: From March 2007 to March 2014, 161 TSC patients were diagnosed. Of 161 patients, 17 patients met diagnostic criteria of SEGAs. We reviewed clinical data of SEGA patients retrogradely. Results: Among 17 SEGAs patients, five patients underwent surgical treatment. Of five patients who underwent surgery, including two patients who underwent gamma knife surgery before tumorectomy, four patients underwent tumorectomy, and one patient underwent shunt operation. Out of four patients who underwent surgery, two patients with increased intracranial pressure (IICP) symptoms before surgery showed worse neurological outcome than the other two patients without IICP symptoms. Conclusion: Our experiences suggest that early surgical intervention should be considered as one of treatment modalities for asymptomatic SEGA patients.