Work

Cervical Pilocytic Astrocytoma Mimicking Spondylotic Myelopathy: A Case Report and Literature Review

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: Spinal cord pilocytic astrocytoma (PA) is a rare, low-grade tumor in adults, typically presenting with a cystic component. Correct diagnosis is crucial, as gross total resection may improve survival rates. We report the case of a 44-year-old patient with chronic neck and arm pain, along with hypoesthesia on the left side, initially suspected of having myelitis based on MRI findings. Surgical exploration enabled near-complete resection, and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of PA. This case highlights the importance of considering PA in the differential diagnosis of inflammatory and degenerative spinal cord disorders and suggests that further investigation is needed into its treatment and potential recurrence.

Source: Cureus

DOI: 10.7759/cureus.70296

Authors: Morgane M Soler-Rico, Lina Daoud, Edward Fomekong

Institutions: Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, UCLouvain

Language: English

Topic: Glioma Diagnosis and Treatment

Subfield: Genetics

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: diamond

OpenAlex ID: W4402931803