Supratentorial Ectopic Ependymoma

Abstract

Ependymomas usually arise from the ventricular surface. We report an 11-year-old female who presented with a supratentorial ectopic ependymoma. The patient presented with a two-month-history of progressive headache, nausea and vomiting. Examination revealed papilledema, horizontal nystagmus, diplopia on upward gaze, and right pronator drift. CT scan showed an enhancing left precentral subcortical lesion measuring 3 cm in diameter with associated edema and mass effect. Its medial border was located 3 cm from the ependymal surface of the ventricle. A firm tumour was dissected from the centrum semiovale white matter, and removed in toto as confirmed on MRI. Pathological examination revealed histological, immuno-histochemical and electron microscopic features consistent with an ependymoma. Spine MRI and bone marrow aspirate, as well as lumbar puncture of cytology failed to show any dissemination. From the literature review, this represents an exceptional ependymoma located at the distance from the ventricular system or cisterns. Different pathogenic alternatives are discussed. © 1995, Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation. All rights reserved.