Research

Epidemiological evaluation of Intracranial Ependymoma

RaviShankar Prasad, Kulwant Singh and Vivek Sharma
World Journal of Surgical Research 2013, 2:6

Abstract

Introduction

Ependymomas are infrequently seen tumours that have been defined as neoplasms arising from ependymal cells lining the ventricles and the central canal of the spinal cord.

Material and method

This is a retrospective study conducted at Department of Neurosurgery, Sir Sunderlal Hospital, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi from August 2007 to December 2012. The diagnosis was made with CT scan and/or MRI brain and confirmed histologically.

Results

Ependymomas constitutes 5.6% of total intracranial tumours. Mean age of all patients was 17.63 years, Fifty eight patients had headache at presentation. Nausea, vomiting, papilloedema and cognitive impairment were present in majority of patients. This can occupy supratentorial or infratentorial compartment of brain.

Conclusion

Intracranial ependymoma constitute a significant proportion among brain tumours so high index of suspicion is required for early detection and better management.

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