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Drabek-Maunder ER, Mankad K, Aquilina K, Dean JA, Nisbet A, Clark CA. Using diffusion MRI to understand white matter damage and the link between brain microstructure and cognitive deficits in paediatric medulloblastoma patients. Eur J Radiol 2024; 177:111562. [PMID: 38901074 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2024.111562] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 05/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Survivors of medulloblastoma face a range of challenges after treatment, involving behavioural, cognitive, language and motor skills. Post-treatment outcomes are associated with structural changes within the brain resulting from both the tumour and the treatment. Diffusion magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been used to investigate the microstructure of the brain. In this review, we aim to summarise the literature on diffusion MRI in patients treated for medulloblastoma and discuss future directions on how diffusion imaging can be used to improve patient quality. METHOD This review summarises the current literature on medulloblastoma in children, focusing on the impact of both the tumour and its treatment on brain microstructure. We review studies where diffusion MRI has been correlated with either treatment characteristics or cognitive outcomes. We discuss the role diffusion MRI has taken in understanding the relationship between microstructural damage and cognitive and behavioural deficits. RESULTS We identified 35 studies that analysed diffusion MRI changes in patients treated for medulloblastoma. The majority of these studies found significant group differences in measures of brain microstructure between patients and controls, and some of these studies showed associations between microstructure and neurocognitive outcomes, which could be influenced by patient characteristics (e.g. age), treatment, radiation dose and treatment type. CONCLUSIONS In future, studies would benefit from being able to separate microstructural white matter damage caused by the tumour, tumour-related complications and treatment. Additionally, advanced diffusion modelling methods can be explored to understand and describe microstructural changes to white matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R Drabek-Maunder
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; UCL Dept of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Malet Place, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond St, London WC1N 3JH, UK.
| | - Kshitij Mankad
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond St, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Kristian Aquilina
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond St, London WC1N 3JH, UK
| | - Jamie A Dean
- UCL Dept of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Malet Place, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Andrew Nisbet
- UCL Dept of Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering, Malet Place, Gower St, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - Chris A Clark
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guildford Street, London WC1N 1EH, UK; Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond St, London WC1N 3JH, UK
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Patel N, Keating G, Solanki GA, Syed HR, Keating RF. Medulloblastomas, CNS embryonal tumors, and cerebellar mutism syndrome: advances in care and future directions. Childs Nerv Syst 2023; 39:2633-2647. [PMID: 37632526 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-023-06112-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
Central nervous system (CNS) embryonal tumors, commonly found in pediatric patients, represent a heterogeneous mix of lesions with an overall poor (though improving) prognosis. Medulloblastomas are by far the most frequently encountered and most widely studied subtype, though others include atypical teratoid/rhabdoid tumors (AT/RTs), embryonal tumor with multilayered rosettes (ETMRs), and CNS neuroblastomas, FOX-R2 activated. The classification, diagnosis, and treatment of these lesions have evolved drastically over the years as their molecular underpinnings have been elucidated. We describe the most recent 2021 WHO Classification system, discuss current understanding of the genetic basis, and demonstrate current thinking in treatment for these highly complex tumors. Since surgical resection continues to remain a mainstay of treatment, preventing and managing surgical complications, especially cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS), is paramount. We describe the current theories for the etiology of CMS and two centers' experience in mitigating its risks. As our surgical toolbox continues to evolve along with our understanding of these tumors, we hope future patients can benefit from both improved overall survival and quality of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nirali Patel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Gregory Keating
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Guirish A Solanki
- Department of Pediatric Neurosurgery, Birmingham Children's Hospital, Birmingham, UK
| | - Hasan R Syed
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA.
| | - Robert F Keating
- Department of Neurosurgery, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC, USA
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Panagopoulos D, Stranjalis G, Gavra M, Boviatsis E, Korfias S, Karydakis P, Themistocleous M. The Entity of Cerebellar Mutism Syndrome: A Narrative Review Centered on the Etiology, Diagnostics, Prevention, and Therapeutic Options. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 10:children10010083. [PMID: 36670634 PMCID: PMC9856273 DOI: 10.3390/children10010083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2022] [Revised: 12/23/2022] [Accepted: 12/28/2022] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS), also known as posterior fossa syndrome, is an entity that entails a constellation of signs and symptoms which are recorded in a limited number of pediatric patients who have been operated on mainly for tumors involving the posterior cranial fossa, and more precisely, the region of the vermis. Medulloblastoma seems to constitute the most commonly recognized pathological substrate, associated with this entity. The most prevalent constituents of this syndrome are noted to be a, often transient, although protracted, language impairment, emotional lability, along with cerebellar and brainstem dysfunction. Apart from that, a definite proportion of involved individuals are affected by irreversible neurological defects and long-lasting neurocognitive impairment. A bulk of literature and evidence based on clinical trials exist, which reflect the continuous effort of the scientific community to highlight all perspectives of this complex phenomenon. There are several circumstances that intervene in our effort to delineate the divergent parameters that constitute the spectrum of this syndrome. In summary, this is implicated by the fact that inconsistent nomenclature, poorly defined diagnostic criteria, and uncertainty regarding risk factors and etiology are all constituents of a non-well-investigated syndrome. Currently, a preliminary consensus exists about the identification of a group of diagnostic prerequisites that are managed as sine qua non, in our aim to document the diagnosis of CMS. These include language impairment and emotional lability, as proposed by the international Board of the Posterior Fossa Society in their consensus statement. It is common concept that midline tumor location, diagnosis of medulloblastoma, younger age at diagnosis, and preoperatively established language impairment should be accepted as the most determinant predisposing conditions for the establishment of this syndrome. A well-recognized pathophysiological explanation of CMS includes disruption of the cerebellar outflow tracts, the cerebellar nuclei, and their efferent projections through the superior cerebellar peduncle. Despite the relative advancement that is recorded regarding the diagnostic section of this disease, no corresponding encouraging results are reported, regarding the available treatment options. On the contrary, it is mainly targeted toward the symptomatic relief of the affected individuals. The basic tenet of our review is centered on the presentation of a report that is dedicated to the definition of CMS etiology, diagnosis, risk factors, clinical presentation, and clinical management. Apart from that, an effort is made that attempts to elucidate the paramount priorities of the scientific forum, which are directed toward the expansion our knowledge in the era of diagnostics, prevention, and therapeutic options for patients suffering from CM, or who are at risk for development of this syndrome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dimitrios Panagopoulos
- Neurosurgical Department, Pediatric Hospital of Athens, ‘Agia Sophia’, 45701 Athens, Greece
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +30-698-132-8628
| | - Georgios Stranjalis
- 1st University Neurosurgical Department, ‘Evangelismos’ Hospital, University of Athens, Neurosurgery, Medical School, 10676 Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Gavra
- Radiology Department, Pediatric Hospital of Athens, ‘Agia Sophia’, 45701 Athens, Greece
| | - Efstathios Boviatsis
- 2nd University Neurosurgical Department, ‘Attikon’ Hospital, University of Athens, Neurosurgery, Medical School, 12462 Athens, Greece
| | - Stefanos Korfias
- 1st University Neurosurgical Department, ‘Evangelismos’ Hospital, University of Athens, Neurosurgery, Medical School, 10676 Athens, Greece
| | - Ploutarchos Karydakis
- Neurosurgical Department, General Hospital of Athens ‘Gennimatas’, 11527 Athens, Greece
| | - Marios Themistocleous
- Neurosurgical Department, Pediatric Hospital of Athens, ‘Agia Sophia’, 45701 Athens, Greece
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4
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Basilar Artery Vasospasm as a Cause of Post-Operative Cerebellar Mutism Syndrome. Case Rep Pediatr 2022; 2022:9148100. [PMID: 35186341 PMCID: PMC8853815 DOI: 10.1155/2022/9148100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Post-operative cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS), also known as posterior fossa syndrome (PFS), is a well-recognized and frequent complication of surgery for posterior fossa tumours in children and young people. Its incidence varies between 8 and 31%, and the pathophysiological mechanisms of delayed onset and resolution of cerebellar mutism are not clear, but axonal damage, oedema, and perfusion defects may be involved. Magnetic resonance imaging has failed to reveal a universal anatomical substrate or a single definite mechanism of injury. We present a case of 16-year-old boy who developed CMS three days after resection of a medulloblastoma, a primary fourth ventricular tumour. Early post-operative imaging showed bleeding in the posterior fossa which required evacuation. CT angiography seven days after surgery demonstrated basilar artery vasospasm. Magnetic resonance brain angiography confirmed persistent narrowing of a segment of the basilar artery closely related to a left cerebellopontine (CP) angle peri-operative haematoma. The patient was treated with nimodipine and hypervolemia. The patient started vocalisation without speech five days later with reversal of radiological lesions. Further recovery of post-operative neurological deficits occurred over a protracted period of several months. This case represents a rare cause of post-operative CMS, with rapid initial recovery that occurred after specific treatment directed at the cause. To our knowledge, this is the first reported case showing mutism associated with basilar artery vasospasm with imaging evidence. This case may suggest the need to undertake urgent vascular imaging in selected cases of post-operative CMS.
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Dasgupta A, Maitre M, Pungavkar S, Gupta T. Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Contemporary Management of Medulloblastoma: Current and Emerging Applications. Methods Mol Biol 2022; 2423:187-214. [PMID: 34978700 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-1952-0_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Medulloblastoma, the most common malignant primary brain tumor in children, is now considered to comprise of four distinct molecular subgroups-wingless (WNT), sonic hedgehog (SHH), Group 3, and Group 4 medulloblastoma, each associated with distinct developmental origins, unique transcriptional profiles, diverse phenotypes, and variable clinical behavior. Due to its exquisite anatomic resolution, multiparametric nature, and ability to image the entire craniospinal axis, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred and recommended first-line imaging modality for suspected brain tumors including medulloblastoma. Preoperative MRI can reliably differentiate medulloblastoma from other common childhood posterior fossa masses such as ependymoma, pilocytic astrocytoma, and brainstem glioma. On T1-weighted images, medulloblastoma is generally iso- to hypointense, while on T2-weighted images, the densely packed cellular component of the tumor is significantly hypointense and displays restricted diffusion on diffusion-weighted imaging. Following intravenous gadolinium, medulloblastoma shows significant but variable and heterogeneous contrast enhancement. Given the propensity of neuraxial spread in medulloblastoma, sagittal fat-suppressed T1-postcontrast spinal MRI is recommended to rule out leptomeningeal metastases for accurate staging. Following neurosurgical excision, postoperative MRI done within 24-48 h confirms the extent of resection, accurately quantifying residual tumor burden imperative for risk assignment. Post-treatment MRI is needed to assess response and effectiveness of adjuvant radiotherapy and systemic chemotherapy. After completion of planned therapy, surveillance MRI is recommended periodically on follow-up for early detection of recurrence for timely institution of salvage therapy, as well as for monitoring treatment-related late complications. Recent studies suggest that preoperative MRI can reliably identify SHH and Group 4 medulloblastoma but has suboptimal predictive accuracy for WNT and Group 3 tumors. In this review, we focus on the role of MRI in the diagnosis, staging, and quantifying residual disease; post-treatment response assessment; and periodic surveillance, and provide a brief summary on radiogenomics in the contemporary management of medulloblastoma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archya Dasgupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Neuro-Oncology Disease Management Group, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India.
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.
| | - Madan Maitre
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Neuro-Oncology Disease Management Group, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
| | - Sona Pungavkar
- Department of Radiodiagnosis and Imaging, Global Hospitals, Mumbai, India
| | - Tejpal Gupta
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Neuro-Oncology Disease Management Group, Tata Memorial Centre, Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI), Mumbai, India
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Dellatolas G, Câmara-Costa H. The role of cerebellum in the child neuropsychological functioning. HANDBOOK OF CLINICAL NEUROLOGY 2020; 173:265-304. [PMID: 32958180 DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-444-64150-2.00023-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
This chapter proposes a review of neuropsychologic and behavior findings in pediatric pathologies of the cerebellum, including cerebellar malformations, pediatric ataxias, cerebellar tumors, and other acquired cerebellar injuries during childhood. The chapter also contains reviews of the cerebellar mutism/posterior fossa syndrome, reported cognitive associations with the development of the cerebellum in typically developing children and subjects born preterm, and the role of the cerebellum in neurodevelopmental disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and developmental dyslexia. Cognitive findings in pediatric cerebellar disorders are considered in the context of known cerebellocerebral connections, internal cellular organization of the cerebellum, the idea of a universal cerebellar transform and computational internal models, and the role of the cerebellum in specific cognitive and motor functions, such as working memory, language, timing, or control of eye movements. The chapter closes with a discussion of the strengths and weaknesses of the cognitive affective syndrome as it has been described in children and some conclusions and perspectives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Georges Dellatolas
- GRC 24, Handicap Moteur et Cognitif et Réadaptation, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France.
| | - Hugo Câmara-Costa
- GRC 24, Handicap Moteur et Cognitif et Réadaptation, Sorbonne Université, Paris, France; Centre d'Etudes en Santé des Populations, INSERM U1018, Paris, France
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7
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Low SYY, Bte Syed Sulaiman N, Tan EEK, Ng LP, Kuick CH, Chang KTE, Tang PH, Wong RX, Looi WS, Low DCY, Seow WT. Cerebrospinal fluid cytokines in metastatic group 3 and 4 medulloblastoma. BMC Cancer 2020; 20:554. [PMID: 32539808 PMCID: PMC7296667 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-020-07048-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2019] [Accepted: 06/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Metastatic medulloblastoma (MB) portends a poor prognosis. Amongst the 4 molecular subtypes, Group 3 and Group 4 patients have a higher incidence of metastatic disease, especially involving the neuroaxis. At present, mechanisms underlying MB metastasis remain elusive. Separately, inflammation has been implicated as a key player in tumour development and metastasis. Cytokines and their inflammation-related partners have been demonstrated to act on autocrine and, or paracrine pathways within the tumour microenvironment for various cancers. In this study, the authors explore the involvement of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) cytokines in Group 3 and 4 MB patients with disseminated disease. Methods This is an ethics approved, retrospective study of prospectively collected data based at a single institution. Patient clinicpathological data and corresponding bio-materials are collected after informed consent. All CSF samples are interrogated using a proteomic array. Resultant expression data of selected cytokines are correlated with each individual’s clinical information. Statistical analysis is employed to determine the significance of the expression of CSF cytokines in Group 3 and 4 patients with metastatic MB versus non-metastatic MB. Results A total of 10 patients are recruited for this study. Median age of the cohort is 6.6 years old. Based on Nanostring gene expression analysis, 5 patients have Group 3 as their molecular subtype and the remaining 5 are Group 4. There are 2 non-metastatic versus 3 metastatic patients within each molecular subtype. Proteomic CSF analysis of all patients for both subtypes show higher expression of CCL2 in the metastatic group versus the non-metastatic group. Within the Group 3 subtype, the MYC-amplified Group 3 MB patients with existing and delayed metastases express higher levels of CXCL1, IL6 and IL8 in their CSF specimens at initial presentation. Furthermore, a longitudinal study of metastatic Group 3 MB observes that selected cytokines are differentially expressed in MYC-amplified metastatic Group 3 MB, in comparison to the non-MYC amplified metastatic Group 3 MB patient. Conclusion This study demonstrates higher expression of selected CSF cytokines, in particular CCL2, in metastatic Group 3 and 4 MB patients. Although our results are preliminary, they establish a proof-of-concept basis for continued work in a larger cohort of patients affected by this devastating disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Y Y Low
- Neurosurgical Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore. .,Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore. .,SingHealth Duke-NUS Neuroscience Academic Clinical Program, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore. .,VIVA-KKH Paediatric Brain and Solid Tumours Laboratory, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore.
| | - Nurfahanah Bte Syed Sulaiman
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore.,VIVA-KKH Paediatric Brain and Solid Tumours Laboratory, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Enrica E K Tan
- Paediatric Haematology/Oncology Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Lee Ping Ng
- Neurosurgical Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Chik Hong Kuick
- Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Kenneth T E Chang
- VIVA-KKH Paediatric Brain and Solid Tumours Laboratory, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore.,Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Phua Hwee Tang
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore
| | - Ru Xin Wong
- Department of Radiation Oncology, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - Wen Shen Looi
- Department of Radiation Oncology, 11 Hospital Drive, Singapore, 169610, Singapore
| | - David C Y Low
- Neurosurgical Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore.,Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore.,SingHealth Duke-NUS Neuroscience Academic Clinical Program, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
| | - Wan Tew Seow
- Neurosurgical Service, KK Women's and Children's Hospital, 100 Bukit Timah Road, Singapore, 229899, Singapore.,Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore.,SingHealth Duke-NUS Neuroscience Academic Clinical Program, 11 Jalan Tan Tock Seng, Singapore, 308433, Singapore
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8
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Avula S. Radiology of post-operative paediatric cerebellar mutism syndrome. Childs Nerv Syst 2020; 36:1187-1195. [PMID: 31183530 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-019-04224-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Post-operative paediatric cerebellar mutism syndrome is a well-recognized complication following posterior fossa tumour resection in children. Over the past few decades, imaging has played an important role in understanding this disorder. AIM This review article aims to focus on the disorder from a radiological perspective, summarizing the salient radiological evidence related to the anatomical structures, pathophysiology, and risk factors related to this disorder. CONCLUSION Radiological studies have been integral to the improved understanding of this condition. Future large multicentre studies and quantitative analysis techniques will be vital in further refinement of our understanding of this complex condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivaram Avula
- Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, East Prescot Road, Liverpool, L14 5AB, UK.
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9
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Cobourn K, Marayati F, Tsering D, Ayers O, Myseros JS, Magge SN, Oluigbo CO, Keating RF. Cerebellar mutism syndrome: current approaches to minimize risk for CMS. Childs Nerv Syst 2020; 36:1171-1179. [PMID: 31273496 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-019-04240-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/28/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Cerebellar mutism syndrome (CMS) is a serious source of morbidity following posterior fossa surgery in the pediatric population. However, methods for effectively decreasing its incidence and impact remain unclear. It is our aim to examine the impact of adjusting surgical factors, namely the use of a telovelar approach and avoidance of cavitronic ultrasonic aspirator, on the incidence of CMS in our population as well as outlining potential pre-, intra-, and postoperative factors that may contribute to its development. METHODS Retrospective review was performed to identify patients undergoing posterior fossa surgery for resection of a medulloblastoma. Demographic, surgical, and postoperative data were collected. These data were analyzed for possible correlations to the risk of developing CMS via univariate analysis. For factors found to be significant, a multivariate analysis was performed to assess their independence. RESULTS Seven of 65 patients (10.8%) developed CMS postoperatively. Factors found to be significantly associated with a higher risk of CMS were the degree of retraction utilized during the procedure (p = 0.0000) and incision of the vermis (p = 0.0294). Although they did not reach the threshold of statistical significance, tumor vascularity (p = 0.19), adoption of a transvermian approach (p = 0.19), and lack of intraoperative imaging (p = 0.17) exhibited strongly suggestive trends towards a correlation with CMS. DISCUSSION In an effort to reduce the incidence and severity of CMS in our population, our institution adopted surgical practices that minimize tissue trauma and mitigate postoperative edema. This included the use of a telovelar over a transvermian approach to obviate the need for vermian incision, avoidance of the CUSA, and minimization of heavy retraction during surgery. This was successful in reducing the incidence of CMS from 39% in our medulloblastoma patients to 10.8%. The development of CMS after posterior fossa surgery appears to be a "two-hit" phenomenon requiring a combination of existing predisposition, surgical injury, and postoperative exacerbation. Therefore, it is critical to identify the factors involved at each stage and investigate treatments to target them appropriately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kelsey Cobourn
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.,Georgetown University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Fares Marayati
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.,Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - Deki Tsering
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA
| | - Owen Ayers
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.,Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, USA
| | - John S Myseros
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.,George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Suresh N Magge
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.,George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Chima O Oluigbo
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA.,George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Robert F Keating
- Division of Neurosurgery, Children's National Medical Center, 4th Floor, Suite 100, 111 Michigan Ave NW, Washington, DC, 20010, USA. .,George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA.
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10
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Signoriello E, D'Amico A, Fratta M, Ugga L, Altobelli C, Conchiglia G, Barbarulo AM, Di Pietro A, Anastasio P, Rossi F, Lus G. Alemtuzumab significantly improves posterior fossa syndrome presented as a relapse of multiple sclerosis. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2019; 38:101518. [PMID: 31778927 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2019.101518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/10/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Posterior fossa syndrome (PFS) is a rare manifestation of ponto-mesencephalic lesions frequently reported in post-surgical pediatric tumors, rarely described as a consequence of vascular, infective or inflammatory lesions. OBJECTIVE The aim of this article is to report the clinical and neuroradiological characteristics of a patient with an acute PFS presentation as a relapse in relapsing-remitting MS, significantly responsive to Alemtuzumab treatment. CASE REPORT 24-year-old patient affected by multiple sclerosis developed motor-cognitive and behavioral syndrome related to an extensive ponto-mesencephalic lesion under Fingolimod treatment. CONCLUSION Our case highlights the significant and rapid effect of Alemtuzumab therapy on both cognitive and motor symptoms occurring during a MS relapse with atypical neuroradiological localization.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Signoriello
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, II Division of Neurology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy.
| | - A D'Amico
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - M Fratta
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, II Division of Neurology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - L Ugga
- Department of Advanced Biomedical Sciences, University of Naples "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - C Altobelli
- Unit of Nephrology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - G Conchiglia
- Alma Mater, Villa Camaldoli Hospital, Naples, Italy
| | - A M Barbarulo
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, II Division of Neurology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - A Di Pietro
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, II Division of Neurology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - P Anastasio
- Unit of Nephrology, Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - F Rossi
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, II Division of Neurology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
| | - G Lus
- Multiple Sclerosis Center, II Division of Neurology, University of Campania Luigi Vanvitelli, Naples, Italy
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11
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Establishing reproducible predictors of cerebellar mutism syndrome based on pre-operative imaging. Childs Nerv Syst 2019; 35:795-800. [PMID: 30726524 DOI: 10.1007/s00381-019-04075-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2018] [Accepted: 01/27/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To establish some explicit, feasible, and reproducible predictors for CMS. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study was a retrospective case study. Data were obtained from 82 patients with medulloblastoma at a single center, Beijing Tiantan Hospital. Based on medical records, we created two independent samples: the CMS group comprising 23 patients and the non-CMS group comprising 23 patients. Pre-operative imaging was studied by performing quantitative assessments of specific indicators. RESULTS The CMS group showed greater differences in pre-operative imaging data with the non-CMS group. The Aaxi/daxi ratio in pre-operative MR imaging captured in the axial plane was used to quantify the compression of the cerebellum and brainstem, and significant differences were observed between the CMS group and non-CMS group (p = 0.0002). In the sagittal plane, Dsag*dsag was used to quantify the area of the tumor that invaded the brainstem, and significant differences were observed between the two groups (p = 0.0003). In the coronal plane, Acor/dcor was used to quantify the compression of the upper functional brain region, and significant differences were noted between the two groups (p = 0.0219). Additionally, Evans' index was introduced to quantify the degree of hydrocephalus. The CMS group tended to show an increased Evans' index (p = 0.0027). CONCLUSION Based on pre-operative imaging data, some reproducible predictors, such as Aaxi/daxi, Dsag*dsag, Acor/dcor, and Evans' index, were established.
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Toescu SM, Hales PW, Aquilina K, Clark CA. Quantitative MRI in post-operative paediatric cerebellar mutism syndrome. Eur J Radiol 2018; 108:43-51. [PMID: 30396670 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2018.09.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 09/06/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Post-operative paediatric cerebellar mutism syndrome (pCMS) occurs in around 25% of children undergoing surgery for cerebellar and fourth ventricular tumours. Reversible mutism is the hallmark of a syndrome which comprises severe motor, cognitive and linguistic deficits. Recent evidence from advanced neuroimaging studies has led to the current theoretical understanding of the condition as a form of diaschisis contingent on damage to efferent cerebellar circuitry. Tractography data derived from diffusion MRI studies have shown disruption of the dentato-rubro-thalamo-cortical tract in patients with pCMS, and perfusion studies have indicated widespread supratentorial regions which may give rise to the florid signs and symptoms of pCMS. Given the difficulties in predicting pCMS from standard structural MRI, this review discusses findings from quantitative MRI modalities which have contributed to our understanding of this debilitating syndrome, and considers the goals and challenges which lie ahead in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian M Toescu
- Developmental Imaging and Biophysics Section, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom; Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JH, United Kingdom.
| | - Patrick W Hales
- Developmental Imaging and Biophysics Section, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom.
| | - Kristian Aquilina
- Department of Neurosurgery, Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children, Great Ormond Street, London WC1N 3JH, United Kingdom.
| | - Chris A Clark
- Developmental Imaging and Biophysics Section, UCL GOS Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London WC1N 1EH, United Kingdom.
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