Unusual location of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma: a case report

Abstract

Background Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma is a rare astrocytic tumor often diagnosed at a young age. Typically, they appear as supratentorial cortical tumors, frequently involving the temporal lobe with few reported rare locations. The prognosis is favorable following surgical excision; however, recurrence, dissemination, and anaplastic transformation occurred in some cases. Case presentation A 50-year-old female presented with convulsions and an altered consciousness. Imaging showed a periventricular mixed solid and cystic lesion. Histopathological examination revealed features of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma WHO grade 2 without necrosis or mitotic activity. Conclusions This report highlights the classic imaging findings of pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma but in an atypical periventricular location. Although rare, pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of mixed solid and cystic periventricular lesions.