Pontine atypical neurocytoma: case report.
OBJECTIVE
Neurocytomas are typically located within the supratentorial ventricular system. Extraventricular neurocytomas are very rare, and this is only the second reported case of a pontine neurocytoma. We discuss the clinical presentation, histology, and treatment of these rare tumors.


METHODS
A 58-year-old man presented with a 4-month history of headache and unilateral facial and distal extremity paresthesia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans demonstrated a 2.6 x 2.2-cm ring-enhancing cystic mass in the right pons.


METHODS
MRI-guided stereotactic biopsy yielded a diagnosis of atypical neurocytoma. Because of the location and malignant histological features of the tumor, the patient was initially treated with external beam radiation therapy. Several months later, MRI scans demonstrated tumor progression. The patient then underwent three rounds of temozolomide chemotherapy, during and after which his symptoms worsened. Aggressive subtotal resection of the tumor was achieved via a right suboccipital craniectomy.


CONCLUSIONS
Twenty-eight months postoperatively, the patient is symptom free, and MRI scans demonstrate no evidence of residual or recurrent tumor.
Swinson
Bradley M
BM
Department of Neurosurgery, University of Florida, Gainesville 32610, USA.
Friedman
William A
WA
Yachnis
Anthony T
AT
D020295:Brain Stem Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018306:Neurocytoma / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000601:surgery*