Choroid Plexus Tumor

Within the heading choroid plexus tumors, there are two types of brain tumors. The first is the choroid plexus papilloma, which accounts for 90% of choroid plexus tumors. The second is the choroid plexus carcinoma, which accounts for the remaining 10%. While these brain tumors can be found in all patients of all ages, 70% are in children under two years of age.

Choroid plexus papillomas represent about 1% of primary brain tumors in adults and about 3% of primary brain tumors in children. In adults, the brain tumors tend to be found in the fourth ventricle (the portion of the spinal fluid pathway in the lower part of the brain) and in children, they tend to be found in the lateral ventricles (the uppermost portion of the spinal fluid pathway).

Choroid plexus carcinomas are found mostly in children and usually in the lateral ventricles. These brain tumors invade the brain and can spread through the spinal fluid.

Symptoms

The symptoms of both types of brain tumors generally relate to an increase in intracranial pressure (the pressure within the skull). These symptoms can include headache, nausea/vomiting, enlargement of the head and seizures. There can also be hemorrhaging in the carcinoma. Local invasion of the brain can cause weakness or paralysis on the side of the body opposite to the side of the tumor. This is only a partial list.

Diagnosis

While a good history and physical examination are always important, the diagnosis of these brain tumors depends on good imaging studies. Choroid plexus tumors can be seen on both CT and MRI scans, though the latter are better for surgical planning.

Treatment

The standard treatment for choroid plexus papilloma is surgery. The surgery may be aided by the use of an Image Guidance System. In about half of patients, even complete removal of the brain tumor does not relieve the spinal fluid excess and in these cases a spinal fluid shunt is necessary. Treatment for choroid plexus carcinoma can include surgery, radiation therapy and/or chemotherapy. Repeat surgery may also be necessary.

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