Management of cerebral cavernous malformations: from diagnosis to treatment

Intracranial Vascular Malformations in Children

Intracranial vascular malformations (IVMs) represent a significant challenge in pediatric medicine due to their diagnostic and therapeutic complexity. Despite their rarity, the severity of potential neurologic outcomes necessitates a comprehensive understanding and approach to management. This article aims to provide an overview of pediatric IVMs, specifically nidal arteriovenous malformations, cavernous malformations, capillary telangiectasias, and developmental venous anomalies, and highlight the importance of advanced diagnostic imaging and therapeutic strategies in improving outcomes. Vein of Galen malformations, pial arteriovenous fistulas, dural sinus malformations, and intracranial venous malformations will be addressed in other articles. Following a discussion of imaging and clinical considerations within the field, novel imaging techniques will be discussed.

Cryoprobe-Assisted Excision of Cavernous Hemangioma of the Orbit: A Clinical Case Report

This case report details the management of orbital cavernous hemangioma in a middle-aged female. The treatment involved a medial orbitotomy combined with an innovative application of a cryoprobe. This approach underscores the benefits of open orbitotomy, particularly when combined with cryoextraction. This combination provides improved control over bleeding and results in a substantial reduction in surgical time, offering valuable insights in the context of the contemporary trend towards endoscopic surgeries.

Risk Analysis Index Predicts Nonhome Discharge Following Resection of Cavernous Malformations

OBJECTIVE

Intracranial cavernous malformations (CMs) are benign vascular lesions associated with hemorrhage, seizures, and corresponding neurological deficits. Recent evidence shows that frailty predicts neurosurgical adverse outcomes with superior discrimination compared to greater patient age. Therefore, we utilized the Risk Analysis Index (RAI) to predict adverse outcomes following cavernous malformation resection (CMR).

METHODS

This retrospective study utilized the Nationwide Inpatient Sample to identify patients who underwent craniotomy for CMR (2019-2020). Multivariate analysis used RAI to assess the ability of frailty to predict nonhome discharge (NHD), extended length of stay (eLOS), and postoperative adverse outcomes. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis evaluated the discriminatory accuracy of RAI for prediction of NHD.

RESULTS

One thousand two hundred CMR patients were identified. Mean patient age was 38±1.2 years, 53.3% (N=640) were female, and 58.3% (N=700) had private insurance. Patients were stratified into 4 frailty tiers based on RAI scores: "robust" (0-20, R), N=905 (80.8%); "normal" (21-30, N), N=110 (9.8%); "frail" (31-40, F), N=25 (2.2%); and "very frail" (41+, VF), N = 80 (7.1%). Increasing frailty was associated with eLOS and higher rates of NHD (P<0.05). The RAI demonstrated strong discriminatory accuracy (C-statistic=0.722) for prediction of NHD following CMR in area under the receiver operating characteristics.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative frailty independently predicts adverse outcomes, including eLOS and NHD in patients undergoing resection of cranial CMs. Integrating RAI into preoperative frailty risk assessment may optimize risk stratification and improve patient selection and reallocate perioperative management resources for better patient outcomes.

Long-Term Outcomes of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Cerebral Cavernous Malformations: 10 Years and Beyond

BACKGROUND

We aimed to evaluate long-term outcomes of gamma knife radiosurgery (GKS) for cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs).

METHODS

Among the 233 CCM patients who underwent GKS, 79 adult patients (96 lesions) followed for over 10 years were included and analyzed retrospectively. Annual hemorrhage rate (AHR) was analyzed the entire cohort of 233 patients and the subset of 79 enrolled patients by dividing lesions into overall CCM lesions and brainstem lesions. AHR, neurologic outcome, adverse radiation effect (ARE), and changes of lesions in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were compared before and after GKS. Cox-regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors for hemorrhage following GKS.

RESULTS

Mean follow-up duration of 79 enrolled patients was 14 years (range, 10-23 years). The AHR of all CCMs for entire cohort at each time point was 17.8% (pre-GKS), 5.9% (≤ 2 years post-GKS), 1.8% (≤ 10 years post-GKS). The AHR of all CCM for 79 enrolled patients was 21.4% (pre-GKS), 3.8% (2 years post-GKS), 1.4% (10 years post-GKS), and 2.3% (> 10 years post-GKS). The AHR of brainstem cavernous malformation (CM) for entire cohort at each time point was 22.4% (pre-GKS), 10.1% (≤ 2 years post-GKS), 3.2% (≤ 10 years post-GKS). The AHR of brainstem CM for 79 enrolled patients was 27.2% (pre-GKS), 5.8% (2 years post-GKS), 3.4% (10 years post-GKS), and 3.5% (> 10 years post-GKS). Out of the 79 enrolled patients, 35 presented with focal neurologic deficits at the initial clinical visit. Among these patients, 74.3% showed recovery at the last follow-up. Symptomatic ARE occurred in five (6.4%) patients. No mortality occurred. Most lesions were decreased in size at the last follow-up MRI. Previous hemorrhage history (hazard ratio [HR], 8.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.07-65.88; P = 0.043), and brainstem location (HR, 3.10; 95% CI, 1.26-7.64; P = 0.014) were significant risk factors for hemorrhage event.

CONCLUSION

GKS for CCM showed favorable long-term outcomes. GKS should be considered for CCM, especially when it has a previous hemorrhage history and brainstem location.

Cavernous Angioma: A Rare Cause of Multiple Cranial Nerve Palsies

Acute onset of neurological deficit is highly suggestive of stroke; in such cases, computed tomography (CT) brain is the initial choice of investigation. While CT brain can differentiate between hemorrhagic and ischemic infarct, more often than not, it is unable to detect the underlying etiology of intracerebral hemorrhage. In these situations, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) brain is crucial in determining the exact etiology and helps us tailor the specific management best suited for our patient. The case under discussion is of a 48-year-old male who presented with multiple cranial nerve palsies and ipsilateral cerebellar involvement in whom CT brain revealed a hemorrhage involving left hemipons and left middle cerebellar peduncle while an MRI brain revealed an unexpected cavernous angioma which changed the management and prognosis of the patient, proving its superiority over CT brain.

Cerebral cavernous malformations - An overview on genetics, clinical aspects and therapeutic strategies

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are abnormally packed blood vessels lined with endothelial cells, that do not exhibit intervening tight junctions, lack muscular and elastic layers and are usually surrounded by hemosiderin and gliosis. CCMs may be sporadic or familial autosomal dominant (FCCMs) caused by loss of function mutations in CCM1 (KRIT1), CCM2 (MGC4607), and CCM3 (PDCD10) genes. In the FCCMs, patients have multiple CCMs, different family members are affected, and developmental venous anomalies are absent. CCMs may be asymptomatic or may manifest with focal neurological deficits with or without associated hemorrhage andseizures. Recent studies identify a digenic "triple-hit" mechanism involving the aquisition of three distinct genetic mutations that culminate in phosphatidylinositol-3-kinase (PIK3CA) gain of function, as the basis for rapidly growing and clinically symptomatic CCMs. The pathophysiology of CCMs involves signaling aberrations in the neurovascular unit, including proliferative dysangiogenesis, blood-brain barrier hyperpermeability, inflammation and immune mediated processes, anticoagulant vascular domain, and gut microbiome-driven mechanisms. Clinical trials are investigating potential therapies, magnetic resonance imaging and plasma biomarkers for hemorrhage and CCMs-related epilepsy, as well as different techniques of neuronavigation and neurosonology to guide surgery in order to minimize post-operatory morbidity and mortality. This review addresses the recent data about the natural history, genetics, neuroimaging and therapeutic approaches for CCMs.

Clinical pharmacology and tolerability of REC-994, a redox-cycling nitroxide compound, in randomized phase 1 dose-finding studies

Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) has variable clinical symptoms, including potentially fatal hemorrhagic stroke. Treatment options are very limited, presenting a large unmet need. REC-994 (also known as tempol), identified as a potential treatment through an unbiased drug discovery platform, is hypothesized to treat CCMs through a reduction in superoxide, a reactive oxygen species. We investigated the safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetic profile of REC-994 in healthy volunteers. Single- and multiple-ascending dose (SAD and MAD, respectively) studies were conducted in adult volunteers (ages 18-55). SAD study participants received an oral dose of REC-994 or placebo. MAD study participants were randomized 3:1 to oral doses of REC-994 or matching placebo, once daily for 10 days. Thirty-two healthy volunteers participated in the SAD study and 52 in the MAD study. Systemic exposure increased in proportion to REC-994 dose after single doses of 50-800 mg and after 10 days of dosing over the 16-fold dose range of 50-800 mg. Median Tmax and mean t1/2 were independent of dose in both studies, and the solution formulation was more rapidly absorbed. REC-994 was well tolerated. Treatment-emergent adverse effects across both studies were mild and transient and resolved by the end of the study. REC-994 has a favorable safety profile and was well tolerated in single and multiple doses up to 800 mg with no dose-limiting adverse effects identified. Data support conducting a phase 2 clinical trial in patients with symptomatic CCM.

Improved differentiation of cavernous malformation and acute intraparenchymal hemorrhage on CT using an AI algorithm

This study aimed to evaluate the utility of an artificial intelligence (AI) algorithm in differentiating between cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) and acute intraparenchymal hemorrhage (AIH) on brain computed tomography (CT). A retrospective, multireader, randomized study was conducted to validate the performance of an AI algorithm in differentiating AIH from CCM on brain CT. CT images of CM and AIH (< 3 cm) were identified from the database. Six blinded reviewers, including two neuroradiologists, two radiology residents, and two emergency department physicians, evaluated CT images from 288 patients (CCM, n = 173; AIH, n = 115) with and without AI assistance, comparing diagnostic performance. Brain CT interpretation with AI assistance resulted in significantly higher diagnostic accuracy than without (86.92% vs. 79.86%, p < 0.001). Radiology residents and emergency department physicians showed significantly improved accuracy of CT interpretation with AI assistance than without (84.21% vs. 75.35%, 80.73% vs. 72.57%; respectively, p < 0.05). Neuroradiologists showed a trend of higher accuracy with AI assistance in the interpretation but lacked statistical significance (95.83% vs. 91.67%, p = 0.56). The use of an AI algorithm can enhance the differentiation of AIH from CCM in brain CT interpretation, particularly for nonexperts in neuroradiology.

Assessing the Relationship between Surgical Timing and Postoperative Seizure Outcomes in Cavernoma-Related Epilepsy: A Single-Institution Retrospective Analysis of 63 Patients with a Review of the Literature

Background: Patients with supratentorial cavernous malformations (SCMs) commonly present with seizures. First-line treatments for cavernoma-related epilepsy (CRE) include conservative management (antiepileptic drugs (AEDs)) and surgery. We compared seizure outcomes of CRE patients after early (≤6 months) vs. delayed (>6 months) surgery. Methods: We compared outcomes of CRE patients with SCMs surgically treated at our large-volume cerebrovascular center (1 January 2010-31 July 2020). Patients with 1 sporadic SCM and ≥1-year follow-up were included. Primary outcomes were International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) class 1 seizure freedom and AED independence. Results: Of 63 CRE patients (26 women, 37 men; mean ± SD age, 36.1 ± 14.6 years), 48 (76%) vs. 15 (24%) underwent early (mean ± SD, 2.1 ± 1.7 months) vs. delayed (mean ± SD, 6.2 ± 7.1 years) surgery. Most (32 (67%)) with early surgery presented after 1 seizure; all with delayed surgery had ≥2 seizures. Seven (47%) with delayed surgery had drug-resistant epilepsy. At follow-up (mean ± SD, 5.4 ± 3.3 years), CRE patients with early surgery were more likely to have ILAE class 1 seizure freedom and AED independence than those with delayed surgery (92% (44/48) vs. 53% (8/15), p = 0.002; and 65% (31/48) vs. 33% (5/15), p = 0.03, respectively). Conclusions: Early CRE surgery demonstrated better seizure outcomes than delayed surgery. Multicenter prospective studies are needed to validate these findings.

A small frontal lobe cavernoma presenting with headache mimicking migraine and complex focal seizure: A case report

Cavernoma, or cerebral cavernous angioma, are hamartomatous lesions formed by sinusoidal vascular spaces without cerebral parenchyma in between. Cavernoma is a rare disorder that is diagnosed infrequently and incidentally, so it is called incidentaloma. However, cavernoma can present with seizures, headaches, and other focal neurological deficits, with seizures being the most frequent presentation. Cavernoma is angiographically concealed, and it's diagnosis is challenging. So, the cavernoma is diagnosed based on an MRI. We present the rare case of a patient who presented with a complex focal seizure and migraine-like headache caused by a small frontal lobe cavernoma.

Diagnosis and treatment status of suprasellar optic pathway cavernous malformations

Cerebral cavernous malformations constitute a subtype of cerebral vascular malformation typically located in the cerebral cortex. However, their occurrence in the suprasellar optic pathway is relatively rare. There is some uncertainty surrounding the clinical diagnostic methods and optimal treatment strategies specific to suprasellar optic pathway cavernous malformations. In this narrative review, we retrospectively analyzed relevant literature related to suprasellar visual pathway cavernous malformations. We conducted a study involving 90 patients who were postoperatively diagnosed with cavernous malformations, including the 16-year-old male patient mentioned in this article. We have summarized crucial clinical data, including the patient age distribution, sex ratio, lesion locations, primary symptoms, and surgical approaches. The comprehensive analysis of this clinical information underscores the critical importance of timely intervention in relieving symptoms and improving neurological deficits in affected patients. These findings provide valuable guidance and insight for clinical practitioners and researchers dealing with this specific medical condition.

Cavernous malformations of the central nervous system: An international consensus statement

Introduction

Cavernous malformations (CM) of the central nervous system constitute rare vascular lesions. They are usually asymptomatic, which has allowed their management to become quite debatable. Even when they become symptomatic their optimal mode and timing of treatment remains controversial.

Research question

A consensus may navigate neurosurgeons through the decision-making process of selecting the optimal treatment for asymptomatic and symptomatic CMs.

Material and methods

A 17-item questionnaire was developed to address controversial issues in relation to aspects of the treatment, surgical planning, optimal surgical strategy for specific age groups, the role of stereotactic radiosurgery, as well as a follow-up pattern. Consequently, a three-stage Delphi process was ran through 19 invited experts with the goal of reaching a consensus. The agreement rate for reaching a consensus was set at 70%.

Results

A consensus for surgical intervention was reached on the importance of the patient's age, symptomatology, and hemorrhagic recurrence; and the CM's location and size. The employment of advanced MRI techniques is considered of value for surgical planning. Observation for asymptomatic eloquent or deep-seated CMs represents the commonest practice among our panel. Surgical resection is considered when a deep-seated CM becomes symptomatic or after a second bleeding episode. Asymptomatic, image-proven hemorrhages constituted no indication for surgical resection for our panelists. Consensus was also reached on not resecting any developmental venous anomalies, and on resecting the associated hemosiderin rim only in epilepsy cases.

Discussion and conclusion

Our Delphi consensus provides an expert common practice for specific controversial issues of CM patient management.

Radiation-Induced Cerebral Cavernous Malformations: A Single-Center Experience and Systematic Literature Review

OBJECTIVE

Radiation was first demonstrated to be associated with cavernomagenesis in 1992. Since then, a growing body of literature has shown the unique course and presentation of radiation-induced cavernous malformations (RICMs). This study summarizes the literature on RICMs and presents a single-center experience.

METHODS

A prospectively maintained single institution vascular malformation database was searched for all cases of intracranial cavernous malformation (January 1, 1997-December 31, 2021). For patients with a diagnosis of RICM, information on demographic characteristics, surgical treatments, radiation, and surgical outcomes was obtained and analyzed. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases for all reported cases of RICM.

RESULTS

A retrospective review of 1662 patients treated at a single institution yielded 10 patients with prior radiation treatment in the neck or head region and a subsequent diagnosis of intracranial RICM. The median (interquartile range) latency between radiation and presentation was 144 (108-192) months. Nine of 10 patients underwent surgery; symptoms improved for 5 patients, worsened for 3, and were stable for 1. The systematic literature review yielded 64 publications describing 248 patients with RICMs. Of the 248 literature review cases, 71 (28.6%) involved surgical resection. Of 39 patients with reported surgical outcomes, 32 (82%) experienced improvement.

CONCLUSIONS

RICMs have a unique course and epidemiology. RICMs should be considered when patients with a history of radiation present with neurologic impairment. When RICMs are identified, symptomatic patients can be treated effectively with surgical excision and close follow-up.

Radiation-induced cerebral cavernous malformation: is it just a childhood disease?

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCM) are clusters of dilated sinusoidal channels, lined by a single layer of endothelium. Acquired form of these lesions was related to previous radiation-therapy, and might be related to its pathophysiology, because the vascular endothelial growth factor has higher expression in the immature brain of the child. Consequently, although it occurs mainly in the paediatric population, it can happen in adults. We report a case of radiation-induced CCM in an adult patient presenting with aggressive behaviour and cerebral haemorrhage.

Role of Genetics and Surgical Interventions for the Management of Cerebral Cavernous Malformations (CMM)

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are comprised of tissue matter within the brain possessing anomalous vascular architecture. In totality, the dilated appearance of the cavernomatakes on a mulberry-like shape contributed by the shape and relation to vascular and capillary elements. Analyzing its pathophysiology along with its molecular and genetic pathways plays a vital role in whether or not a patient receives GKRS, medical management, or Surgery, the most invasive of procedures. To avoid neurological trauma, microsurgical resection of cavernomas canbe guided by the novel clinical application of a 3D Slicer with Sina/MosoCam. When cavernomas present in deep lesions with poor accessibility, gamma knife stereotactic radiosurgery (GKSR) is recommended. For asymptomatic and non-multilobal lesions, medical and symptom management is deemed standard, such as antiepileptic therapy. The two-hit hypothesis serves to explain the mutations in three key genes that are most pertinent to the progression of cavernomas: CCM1/KRIT1, CCM2/Malcavernin, and CCM3/PDCD10. Various exon deletions and frameshift mutations can cause dysfunction in vascular structure through loss and gain of function mutations. MEKK3 and KLF2/4 are involved in a protein kinase signaling cycle that promotes abnormal angiogenesis and cavernoma formation. In terms of potential treatments, RhoKinase inhibitors have shown to decrease endothelial to mesenchymal transition and CCM lesion development in mice models. All in all, understanding the research behind the molecular genetics in CCMs can foster personalized medicine and potentially create new neurosurgical and medicative treatments.

Multiple supra- and infratentorial cavernous hemangiomas in a five year-old girl

Cavernous hemangiomas (CHs) are vascular structures comprising abnormally dilated blood vessel clusters. This anomaly is estimated to occur in approximately one out of every 500-600 people.  Individuals often show the first sign of cavernous hemangiomas in their second or third decade. Therefore, the presentation of this disorder is not common in children. This study presents a five year-old-girl who developed abruptly nearly fixed right-sided eye deviation and incoordination after a short course of viral infection. In physical examination, she had left peripheral facial, right eye oculomotor, and left abducens nerve palsy. Her brain's computed tomography (CT) scan revealed hemorrhages in the posterior aspect of the pons and some areas of the hemispheres in different stages. Following brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), multiple popcorn ball low-signal T2* lesions with both supra- and infratentorial locations with marked peripheral hypo intensities were seen. These findings were in favor of multiple cavernous hemangiomas of the brain. The novelty of this case was due to observing cavernous angiomas in both supra- and infratentorial spaces in pediatric age.

Orbital Cavernous Venous Malformation in a 35-Year-Old Man: A Case Report

In this article we present a case of a 35-year-old patient with a massive 43 × 35 × 34 mm cavernous venous malformation of the left orbit. The orbital lesion was initially observed in 2008 and remained untreated to 2021 due to the patient's refusal to consent to the surgical procedure; which caused the tumor to grow to monstrous dimensions.

Intraparenchymal cerebellar capillary hemangioma in a 32-year-old man: a case report

The authors present an unusual case of a 32-year-old adult male with a capillary hemangioma, which developed within the left cerebellar parenchyma. The histopathological examination reveals a mass mostly formed by the proliferation of capillaries, lined by a layer of flat-plump endothelial cells, some branching and dilating large capillaries, forming a lobulated structure separated by fibrocollagenous connective tissue. Immunohistochemistry examination with CD31 and S100 was positive on the endothelial and stromal cells, respectively, and negative S100 on the endothelial cells. Although rare, capillary hemangioma should be one of the differential diagnoses for diagnosing intra-axial lesions in the cerebellar region. Confirmation of the histopathological characteristic is necessary to determine the diagnosis of capillary hemangioma and exclude other differential diagnoses.

Cavernoma-Related Epilepsy: Postoperative Epilepsy Outcome and Analysis of the Predictive Factors, Case Series

BACKGROUND

Epilepsy is common in patients harboring cavernous malformation, and surgery is reported to be an effective treatment. However, few patients still experience seizures after surgery. We analyzed the outcome and predictive factors after cavernoma-related epilepsy (CRE) surgery.

METHODS

A database was created for all patients with CRE treated surgically from 2003 to 2020 at a university hospital. A chart review, perioperative epilepsy workup, surgical strategies, and postoperative and follow-up notes were analyzed. Postoperative seizure outcome was evaluated according to the Engel classification.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven patients (40.5% women; mean age 39.1 ± 14.5 years) were studied. The mean follow-up time was 5.6 ± 3.9 years. Among 37 patients, 32 (86.5%) achieved Engel class I at the last follow-up. Engel class II was found in 1 (2.7%), Engel class III in 1 (2.7%), and Engel class IV in 3 (8.1%) cases. Engel class Ia was observed in 23 patients (62.2%). None of the patients had a worse seizure outcome after the operation (Engel class IVc). Univariate and multivariate analysis showed that short-standing, sporadic, or low-frequent (≤3) seizures were the only variables significantly associated with seizure freedom, whereas longstanding, drug-resistant, or high-frequent seizure history were associated with worse seizure outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Surgical treatment results in favorable seizure control in most patients after CRE surgery. Long duration of epilepsy before surgery, high seizure frequency, and drug-resistant epilepsy could have a negative effect on seizure outcome (Engel class II-IV). Therefore, early surgical resection of the cavernoma after careful presurgical planning is recommended to achieve an optimal result.

Glioblastoma imitating a cavernoma radiologically: A unique image report

Background:

Glioblastoma is the most common primary malignant brain tumor with characteristic radiological features in most cases.

Case Description:

We highlight an unusual case of a 54-year-old woman, neurologically intact, with a diagnostically challenging lesion. The patient’s magnetic resonance imaging revealed a left frontal lesion with surrounding edema and a hemosiderin ring, misleading it to be a cavernoma. Intraoperatively, the lesion was found to be a solid tumor with hematoma and was confirmed to be glioblastoma on histopathology.

Conclusion:

The dilemma associated with our patient’s radiological findings and longstanding history of epilepsy is rare and a diagnostic challenge.

Deep Ganglionic Intracerebral Hemorrhage Due to Cavernous Malformation Mimicking Hypertensive Hemorrhage: A Report of Two Cases

Cavernous malformation (CM) is a type of vascular malformation that is an important cause of intracerebral hemorrhage. However, because CM is a low-flow vascular malformation, the occurrence of major hemorrhage is rare. We present two patients with deep ganglionic intracerebral hemorrhage that caused a significant mass effect, mimicking hypertensive hemorrhage. In both cases, we performed evacuation of the hematoma as a lifesaving treatment and made a pathological diagnosis of CM. In conclusion, preoperative diagnosis of CM using any kind of radiological evaluation is difficult, especially in patients with major hemorrhage. The possibility of CM should be remembered in cases with deep ganglionic intracerebral hemorrhage.

Cerebral cavernous malformations: Typical and atypical imaging characteristics

Cavernous malformations (CMs) are benign vascular malformations that maybe seen anywhere in the central nervous system. They are dynamic lesions, growing or shrinking over time and only rarely remaining stable. Size varies from a few millimeters to a few centimeters. CMs can be sporadic or familial, and while most of them are congenital, de novo and acquired lesions may also be seen. Etiology is still unknown. A genetic molecular mechanism has been proposed since a cerebral cavernous malformation gene loss of function was found in both familial and sporadic lesions. Additionally, recent studies suggest that formation of CMs in humans may be associated with a distinctive bacterial gut composition (microbioma). Imaging is fairly typical but may vary according to age, location, and etiology. Follow-up is not well established because CMs patients have a highly unpredictable clinical course. Angiogenic and inflammatory mechanisms have been implicated in disease activity, as well as lesional hyperpermeability and iron deposition. Imaging and serum biomarkers of these mechanisms are under current investigation. Treatment options, including surgery or radiosurgery, are not well defined and are dependent upon multiple factors, including clinical presentation, lesion location, number of hemorrhagic events, and medical comorbidities. Our purpose is to review the imaging features of CMs based on their size, location, and etiology, as well as their differential diagnosis and best imaging approach. New insights in etiology will be briefly considered. Follow-up strategies, including serum and imaging biomarkers, and treatment options will also be discussed.

Predictors of future haemorrhage from cerebral cavernous malformations: a retrospective cohort study

Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are commonly diagnosed, with a low reported rate of haemorrhage on long-term follow-up. The identification of factors predictive of future haemorrhage risk would assist in guiding the management of patients with CCM. The aim of this study was to identify variables associated with haemorrhage, and calculate haemorrhage risk in CCM. We conducted a retrospective study of patients diagnosed with a CCM, managed at a specialist tertiary neuroscience centre (2007-2019). The primary outcome was symptomatic haemorrhage, and secondary outcomes were variables associated with increased risk of haemorrhage, using multivariable Cox regression analysis. Included were 545 patients, with 734 confirmed cavernomas. Median age at diagnosis was 47 (interquartile range [IQR] 35-60), with a median follow-up duration after diagnosis of 46 months (IQR 19-85). Of the patients, 15.0% had multiple lesions (N = 82/545). Symptomatic presentation was observed in 52.5% of patients (N = 286/545). The annual haemorrhage rate was 1.00% per lesion-year (25 events in 2512 lesion-years), and higher in those with symptoms at presentation (1.50% per lesion-year, 22 events vs 0.29%, 3 events, P < 0.001). The variables associated with symptomatic haemorrhage were increased size (hazard ratio [HR] 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.07, P = 0.004), eloquent location (HR 2.63, 95% CI 1.12-6.16, P = 0.026), and symptomatic haemorrhage at presentation (HR 5.37, 95% CI 2.40-11.99, P < 0.001). This study demonstrated that CCMs have a low haemorrhage rate. Increased size, eloquent location, and haemorrhage at presentation appear to be predictive of a higher risk of haemorrhage, and could be used to stratify management protocols.

The use of stereotactic MRI-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy for the treatment of pediatric cavernous malformations: the SUNY Upstate Golisano Children's Hospital experience

PURPOSE

Cavernous malformations (CM) are central nervous system lesions characterized by interlaced vascular sinusoids coated with endothelial cells without intervening parenchyma. Magnetic resonance imaging-guided laser interstitial thermal therapy (MRIgLITT) is a minimally invasive treatment modality that can precisely treat pathologic cerebral tissue, making it an effective alternative for the management of cavernomas. We describe the outcomes of a series of pediatric patients with cavernous brain malformations treated with MRIgLITT between 2014 and 2018 at our institution.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed 11 cavernomas in 6 pediatric patients treated with MRIgLITT. Both the Visualase System^® and/or Neuroblate^® systems were used. A variation of the surgical technique on the application of the laser was developed. Post-ablation MRIs were obtained to assess ablated areas.

RESULTS

A total of 11 cavernomas in 6 patients were treated with MRIgLITT. Median age was 15 years (12 to 17 years); 75% were males. Presenting symptoms were headache (75%) and seizures (25%). Two patients presented with multiple CMs. All lesions in this study were supratentorial (cerebral hemispheres 81.8%, corpus callosum 9.1%, basal ganglia 9.1%). Our surgical technique was well-tolerated, with no significant adverse events observed. Hospital stay for all patients was less than 48 hours.

CONCLUSION

MRIgLITT is an effective minimally invasive technique for the treatment of pediatric CMs. It represents a useful and safe tool, when other therapeutic alternatives may represent a greater risk of surgical morbidity.

Radiosurgery effects and adverse effects in symptomatic eloquent brain-located Cavernomas

In this study, the dose schedule efficacy, safety and late adverse effects of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) were evaluated for patients with symptomatic cavernomas who were not eligible for surgery and treated with SRS. Between January 2013 and December 2018, 53 patients with cavernomas were treated using SRS with the CyberKnife® system. Patients' diseases were deeply located or were in subcortical functional brain regions. In addition to bleeding, 23 (43.4%) patients had epilepsy, 12 (22.6%) had neurologic symptoms and 16 patients (30.2%) had severe headaches. The median volume was 741 (range, 421-1351) mm3, and the median dose was 15 (range, 14-16) Gy in one fraction. After treatment, six (50%) of 12 patients with neurologic deficits still had deficits. Rebleeding after treatment developed in only two (3.8%) patients. The drug was completely stopped in 14 (60.9%) out of 23 patients who received epilepsy treatment, and the dose of levetiracetam decreased from 2000 mg to 1000 mg in four (17.3%) of nine patients. Radiologically, complete response (CR) was observed in 13 (24.5%) patients, and partial responses (PR) were observed in 32 (60.2%) patients. Clinical response of CR was observed in 30 (56.6%) patients, PR was observed in 16 (30.2%), stable disease (SD) was observed in three (5.7%) and four (7.5%) patients progressed. In conclusion, SRS applied in the appropriate dose schedule may be an effective and reliable method in terms of symptom control and prevention of rebleeding, especially in patients with inoperable cavernomas.

A 5-year outcome of propranolol for the treatment of paediatric intracranial cavernoma: case report and a review of the literature

We describe a case of a young male patient with KRIT1-driven familial cavernous malformation syndrome who developed multiple brain cavernomas, intracranial bleeding, and persistent seizures. Due to the relentless growth of cavernous malformations and recurrent intracranial bleeds, it was decided to enrol the patient in the "Propranolol for Intracranial Cavernoma" (PICC) pilot trial at our institution. Over the 5-year treatment period with 20 to 40-mg oral propranolol three times daily (TDS), we noted the near-complete arrest of the growth of cavernous malformations with no further evidence of intracranial bleeding or any further seizures. The observed outcome is consistent with the extremely limited published literature on the topic; thus, this case provides important evidence that supports the use of propranolol as a prophylactic treatment for paediatric intracranial cavernomas. We strongly encourage and recommend future prospective randomised controlled trials to definitively assess and characterize the therapeutic utility of propranolol in this patient population.

Cerebellar hemorrhage in a healthy young adult: a case report

Background

Cavernous venous malformation is an uncommon entity that occurs in around 0.5% of the general population. Cerebellar cavernous venous malformation accounts for 1.2–11.8% of intracranial cavernous venous malformation cases. Patients are commonly asymptomatic until a hemorrhage occurs. In approximately 20% of the cases, cavernous venous malformation and developmental venous anomalies occur together, called mixed vascular malformation. Our case report reveals the imaging features of the mixed vascular malformation and highlights the appropriate imaging modality and sequence to detect the abnormalities.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 15-year-old Malay male, a healthy young male who presented with dizziness, vomiting, and mild headache for 1 month. Computed tomography brain imaging at presentation revealed cerebellar hemorrhage with multiple cavernous venous malformation and coexisting developmental venous anomalies, which was then confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging. The patient was started on dexamethasone 4 mg four times a day, observed in the ward, and discharged well without neurological sequelae.

Conclusion

A cavernous malformation with concurrent developmental venous anomalies requires accurate diagnosis. Our case report contributes to the literature on the imaging diagnosis of this disease, which is beneficial for current and future reference.

Vertigo due to cerebellar cavernous malformation: A case report

Central vertigo is a result of vestibular structure dysfunction in the central nervous system. Currently, misdiagnoses between peripheral and central lesions are frequent, and diagnostic testing costs are high. Identifying the characteristics of these 2 conditions is challenging. We can provide better treatment if we can establish a diagnosis earlier. Cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) at the cerebellum is a cerebellar lesion that causes symptoms of central vertigo. We report a patient, 20th years old, female, with vertigo for 1 month before being admitted. Vertigo was getting worse, and when the patient arrived at our hospital, vertigo was accompanied by headache, right and left abducens nerve palsy, horizontal nystagmus bidirectional, vertical nystagmus, and weakness on the right side of the body. A brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed before surgery and shows a lesion suggestive of CCM at the cerebellum with a hemorrhagic component inside and non-communicating hydrocephalus. There is no vascular malformation based on digital subtraction angiography result. MRI is the most sensitive and specific modality for detecting CCM, whereas cerebral angiography rarely detects this malformation. The patient got surgical treatment, with suboccipital decompression procedures and CCM excision. The histopathological results after surgical treatment revealed a cerebral cavernous malformation. Vertigo, headache, double vision, and weakness on the right side of the body were resolved after surgery.

Beware of missed diagnosis in patients with multiple genetic diseases: a case report

Background

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is an X-linked recessive inherited disorder caused by the absence of the Dystrophin protein. Cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are the most common vascular abnormalities in the central nervous system caused by the absence of the products of the CCM genes. Most CCMs cases reported occurring in a sporadic form are often asymptomatic.

Case presentation

We report a rare case of a 7-year-old Chinese boy with a co-existing DMD and sporadic CCMs. We found classic clinical features of DMD and non-specific pathological changes in his brain. We made the definitive diagnosis based on the results of whole-exome sequencing (WES), a repeat from exon 3 to exon 9 of the DMD inherited from his mother, and a de novo heterozygote nonsense mutation C.418G > T of the PDCD10 exon 6.

Conclusion

We should take care to avoid missed diagnoses in patients with multiple genetic disorders.

A Rare Case of Frontal Lobe Cavernous Malformation Mimicking Meningioma

Cavernous venous malformations are benign vascular lesions that commonly occur in the brain parenchyma. These when present in the extra-axial or superficial cortical location can be mistaken for meningioma. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help in the detection and easy differentiation of the two entities and thus aid in preoperative diagnosis and preventing intraoperative complications. We present a case of an 18-year-old male patient suffering from seizures, which was initially diagnosed as meningioma. However, detailed evaluation with MRI raised a possibility of cavernous malformation and it was considered as a differential.

Primary Intraosseous Cavernous Hemangioma of the Cranium: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Primary intraosseous cavernous hemangioma (PICH) is a rare, benign tumor of vascular origin, typically arising in the vertebral body. Its presence in the skull is exceedingly rare, with only a few cases being reported worldwide. We carried out the first systematic review of the literature, covering the epidemiology, clinical and imaging features, management, and prognosis of cranial PICH. The literature search revealed 51 studies with 77 patients; the mean age of the patients was 32.7 years with a female predominance of 1.4:1. The majority of cranial PICHs were located in the calvarium, primarily in the frontal and parietal regions, with only a few located in the skull base. The most common initial clinical manifestation was local growth or swelling, followed by a headache. Radiographically, PICHs represented osteolytic, intradiploic masses, which in many cases displayed trabeculations, leading to the so-called "honeycomb" or "starburst" pattern. After contrast administration, PICHs typically enhance. Tumor removal, with craniectomy or en bloc resection and subsequent skull reconstruction, was selected for calvarial PICHs, whereas a transsphenoidal approach, with only partial resection, was applied for clival/sella PICHs. Preoperative embolization, aiming to minimize intraoperative blood loss, was performed in the case of large tumors. At a mean follow-up of 39 months, no patient experienced tumor recurrence, even after subtotal resection. Owing to the benign nature of the tumor, maximal safe resection is recommended as the treatment of choice for patients with cranial PICH.

Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy for Cavernous Malformations: A Systematic Review

Background

Microsurgical resection of intracranial cavernous malformations (CM) is regarded as the standard treatment, but in recent years, there has been a trend toward minimally invasive procedures like ablation of such lesions by using laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT).

Methods

A systematic search using keywords ‘laser interstitial thermal therapy’ OR ‘LITT’ AND ‘cavernoma’ OR ‘cavernous angiomas’ OR ‘cavernous malformations’ was conducted in MEDLINE (PubMed), Scopus, Embase, and Cochrane electronic bibliographic databases and studies reporting the outcome of LITT procedure on intracranial CM were included. The demographic data, symptoms of patients, location and size of the lesion, and surgical outcome were extracted from the articles.

Result

Six studies, reporting the outcome of 33 patients were included in this review. In 26 patients, CM was identified as the epileptogenic foci and in others, CM was the source of headache or focal neurological deficits. LITT led to a satisfactory outcome in all patients except for three who achieved improvement in symptoms after the open resection of the lesion. Most of the post-operative complications were transient and resolved at the time of the last follow up. Cyst formation at the previous ablated CM site was reported as the long-term complication of LITT in one case.

Conclusion

LITT can provide a comparable outcome to the open resection of CMs, by having less invasiveness, even in deep and eloquent area lesions, and complications that are often temporary and disappear gradually. However, technical issues, such as thermal monitoring during the procedure, are considered a challenge for this procedure in CMs. Further studies with a larger population are needed to report this method's long-term outcome and complications on CMs.

NOGOB receptor deficiency increases cerebrovascular permeability and hemorrhage via impairing histone acetylation-mediated CCM1/2 expression

The loss function of cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM) genes leads to most CCM lesions characterized by enlarged leaking vascular lesions in the brain. Although we previously showed that NOGOB receptor (NGBR) knockout in endothelial cells (ECs) results in cerebrovascular lesions in the mouse embryo, the molecular mechanism by which NGBR regulates CCM1/2 expression has not been elucidated. Here, we show that genetic depletion of Ngbr in ECs at both postnatal and adult stages results in CCM1/2 expression deficiency and cerebrovascular lesions such as enlarged vessels, blood-brain-barrier hyperpermeability, and cerebral hemorrhage. To reveal the molecular mechanism, we used RNA-sequencing analysis to examine changes in the transcriptome. Surprisingly, we found that the acetyltransferase HBO1 and histone acetylation were downregulated in NGBR-deficient ECs. The mechanistic studies elucidated that NGBR is required for maintaining the expression of CCM1/2 in ECs via HBO1-mediated histone acetylation. ChIP-qPCR data further demonstrated that loss of NGBR impairs the binding of HBO1 and acetylated histone H4K5 and H4K12 on the promotor of the CCM1 and CCM2 genes. Our findings on epigenetic regulation of CCM1 and CCM2 that is modulated by NGBR and HBO1-mediated histone H4 acetylation provide a perspective on the pathogenesis of sporadic CCMs.

Management of pediatric cerebral cavernous malformations with gamma knife radiosurgery: a report of 46 cases

INTRODUCTION

Pediatric cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) are commonly treated vascular anomalies with different clinical characteristics than their adult counterparts. Outcomes of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery (GKRS) for pediatric CCMs have not explicitly been reported. This paper reports our experience in managing pediatric CCMs with GKRS.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the clinical features, GKRS parameters, and clinical and radiological outcomes of 46 children with 64 CCMs.

RESULTS

A total of 46 children, including 19 girls and 27 boys, with a median age of 16 years (3-17 years), were enrolled in the study. The median age at first CCM diagnosis was 13 years (range, 2-17 years). Twenty-two patients (47.8%) had more than one neurological symptom at the time of diagnosis, and the most common presenting symptom was seizure (28.3%). The most common location was supratentorial superficial (53.1%), and 17.4% of patients had multiple CCMs. A developmental venous anomaly was detected in 5 patients (10.9%). During a total of 52.4 retrospective patient-years in patients with > 1 hemorrhage episode, the calculated annual hemorrhage rate was 40.1%. The median post-GKRS follow-up was 79 months (range, 19-175 months), with an overall 306.2 prospective patient years. The annual hemorrhage rate (AHR) during the first 2 years after GKRS and after the initial 2 years was 1.11% and 0.46%, respectively. Regarding clinical factors and GKRS parameters, univariate analysis revealed a significant association with post-GKRS AHR and volume (p = 0.023) only. Patients with pre-GKRS seizures showed favorable seizure control (Engel class I and II) in 8 children (61.5%). There was no mortality in our series.

CONCLUSION

Low AHR following GKRS with no radiation-induced toxicity makes GKRS a therapeutic alternative for pediatric CCMs.

Beyond Mendelian Inheritance: Genetic Buffering and Phenotype Variability

Understanding the way genes work amongst individuals and across generations to shape form and function is a common theme for many genetic studies. The recent advances in genetics, genome engineering and DNA sequencing reinforced the notion that genes are not the only players that determine a phenotype. Due to physiological or pathological fluctuations in gene expression, even genetically identical cells can behave and manifest different phenotypes under the same conditions. Here, we discuss mechanisms that can influence or even disrupt the axis between genotype and phenotype; the role of modifier genes, the general concept of genetic redundancy, genetic compensation, the recently described transcriptional adaptation, environmental stressors, and phenotypic plasticity. We furthermore highlight the usage of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), the generation of isogenic lines through genome engineering, and sequencing technologies can help extract new genetic and epigenetic mechanisms from what is hitherto considered 'noise'.

Piecing Together a Puzzle of Exceptional Lesions: A Retrospective Study of a Potpourri of 160 Space-Occupying Lesions of the Central Nervous System

Introduction

Central nervous system (CNS) lesions are rare and histologically heterogenous, and carry serious potential for patient morbidity and mortality. A retrospective epidemiological review of CNS neoplasms is of great importance for future research because it can demonstrate the changes in the spectrum of CNS lesions of a population, unveil the possible associated risk factors, and indicate the potential therapeutic methods for various neoplastic and non-neoplastic lesions. Neurosurgeons have always shown an obsession with a good neuropathological diagnosis in intracranial and extracranial lesions. This obsession need not be overemphasized as it helps the clinician plan an adequate surgical/treatment strategy to optimize outcomes and minimize morbidity.

Methods

This study included a spectrum of 160 biopsies of patients with space-occupying lesions of the CNS during a period of two years (2019-2021). All the cases were studied and analyzed, and their histological typing/grading was done. The cases were graded and categorized according to the 2016 WHO Classification of CNS Tumors.

Results

Among 160 cases, the study showed a slight male preponderance of 100 (62.5%) cases. The maximum number of cases, 37 (23%) cases, was in the age group of 41-50 years. Clinically, the commonest complaints were headache and seizures. The most common location of tumor was supra-tentorial, comprising around 96 (60%) cases, of which 27 (28%) cases were located in the frontal lobe. There were four (2.5%) cases that had non-neoplastic lesions and the rest 156 (97.5%) cases had neoplastic lesions. Malignant lesions outnumbered the benign lesions, comprising of 82 (51.25%) cases. Among the neoplastic lesions, the highest cases were of astrocytoma, 48 (30.76%) cases, followed by meningioma, 42 (26.92%) cases. Also, 21 extremely rare and unusual cases were encountered.

Conclusion

The present study reflects the diversity of histopathological spectrum of CNS lesions in our center. In-depth studies from across various hospitals are required to have representative data on the incidence, epidemiological profile, and etiology of CNS lesions in India.

Case report and related comments in a relatively young male patient with right hemiplegia after left thalamo- mesencephalic hemorrhage and a consequent Parinaud syndrome – interdisci-plinary therapeutic – rehabilitative approach

Thalamo- mesencephalic hemorrhage is a devasting event, with a increased morbidity and mor-tality rate. Parinaud’s syndrome, also known as the dorsal midbrain syndrome, is characterized by a supranuclear vertical gaze disturbing, resulting from an insult to the mesencephalic tectum. Matherial and Method. We report the case of a 45-year-old man with personal antecedents of ar-terial hypertension, obesity and type 2 Diabetus mellitus, who was first admitted in the Neuro-logy Clinic Division of the Teaching Emergency Hospital Bucharest with a sudden onset of com-plete right hemiplegia, mixed aphasia and right central– type facial palsy on 17.04.2021, being diagnosed – following complex paraclinic investigations -with a left thalamo- mesencephalic hemorrhage. Results and discusssion. The patient followed a neuro- muscular rehabilitation program in our Neuro- Rehabilitation Clinic Division with favorable outcomes, the case repre-senting a real challenge regarding the complexity of the factors involved. Conclusions. The cli-nical outcomes and the quality of life of patients suffering from thalamo- mesencephalic hemor-rhage depend both on the prompt diagnosis and the efficient treatment, followed by an appro-priate rehabilitation program. Keywords: neuro-rehabilitation, thalamo-mesencephalic hemorrhage, Parinaud syndrome

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Multiple Cerebral and Spinal Cavernous Malformations of a Patient with Dementia and Tetraparesis

Cavernomas are rare cerebrovascular malformations that usually occur in sporadic forms with solitary lesions located most often in the hemispheric white matter, but also in the infratentorial or spinal region. Multiple lesions at different CNS levels are considered a hallmark for the familial form of the disease. The diagnostic modality of choice for cerebral cavernous malformations (CCMs) is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We present an intriguing case of a 65-year-old male admitted to our hospital with tetraparesis and cognitive impairment where highly sensitive MRI sequences identified many cerebral cavernous lesions at the supra-, infratentorial and cervical–thoracic spine levels, some of them with recent signs of bleeding in a patient with oral anticoagulant therapy due to atrial fibrillation. The mechanism of cognitive impairment in this patient is most probably the interruption of strategic white matter tracts, as it is known to happen in other subcortical vascular pathologies. MRI can be helpful not only in mapping the anatomical distribution of lesions, but also in weighing the risks and making decisions regarding whether or not to continue oral anticoagulant therapy.

Gastrointestinal Microbiome and Neurologic Injury

Communication between the enteric nervous system (ENS) of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and the central nervous system (CNS) is vital for maintaining systemic homeostasis. Intrinsic and extrinsic neurological inputs of the gut regulate blood flow, peristalsis, hormone release, and immunological function. The health of the gut microbiome plays a vital role in regulating the overall function and well-being of the individual. Microbes release short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) that regulate G-protein-coupled receptors to mediate hormone release, neurotransmitter release (i.e., serotonin, dopamine, noradrenaline, γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), acetylcholine, and histamine), and regulate inflammation and mood. Further gaseous factors (i.e., nitric oxide) are important in regulating inflammation and have a response in injury. Neurologic injuries such as ischemic stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, and hemorrhagic cerebrovascular lesions can all lead to gut dysbiosis. Additionally, unfavorable alterations in the composition of the microbiota may be associated with increased risk for these neurologic injuries due to increased proinflammatory molecules and clotting factors. Interventions such as probiotics, fecal microbiota transplantation, and oral SCFAs have been shown to stabilize and improve the composition of the microbiome. However, the effect this has on neurologic injury prevention and recovery has not been studied extensively. The purpose of this review is to elaborate on the complex relationship between the nervous system and the microbiome and to report how neurologic injury modulates the status of the microbiome. Finally, we will propose various interventions that may be beneficial in the recovery from neurologic injury.

How can we optimize the long-term outcome in children with intracranial cavernous malformations? A single-center experience of 61 cases

The objective is to provide a treatment algorithm for pediatric patients with intracranial cavernous malformations (CMs) based on our experience. Patients < 18 years of age who were treated either surgically or conservatively at the authors' institution between 1982 and 2019 were retrospectively evaluated. A total of 61 pediatric patients were treated at the authors' institution: 39 with lobar CMs; 18 with deep CMs, including 12 in the brainstem and 6 in the basal ganglia; and 4 with CMs in the cerebellar hemispheres. Forty-two patients underwent surgery, and 19 were treated conservatively. The median follow-up time was 65 months (1-356 months). In surgically treated patients, lesions were larger (2.4 cm vs 0.9 cm, p < 0.001). In patients with lobar CMs, seizures were more common (72% vs 21%, p = 0.003) in the surgery group than in conservatively managed patients. In deep CMs, modified Rankin scale (mRS) was higher (4 vs 1, p = 0.003) in the surgery group than in conservatively treated patients. At the time of last follow-up, no differences in Wieser outcome class I were seen (86% vs 67%) in lobar CMs, and mRS scores had aligned between the treatment groups in deep CMs (1 vs 0). We encountered no new permanent neurological deficit at time of last follow-up. We propose a treatment algorithm according to lesion location and size, burden of symptoms, epilepsy workup, and further clinical course during observation. A conservative management is safe in pediatric patients with asymptomatic CMs. Gross total resection should be the aim in patients with symptomatic lobar CMs. A less aggressive approach with subtotal resection, when required to prevent neurological compromise, sustainably improves neurological outcome in patients with deep CMs.

The Impact of Volume Factor on the Long-Term Outcome of Gamma Knife Radiosurgery for Sporadic Cerebral Cavernous Malformations

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcome of gamma knife radiosurgery (GKRS) for the treatment of sporadic cerebral cavernous malformation (CCM), especially the influence of lesion volume on annual hemorrhage rate (AHR) of patients with CCM after GKRS.

METHODS

Fifty-one single-lesion patients with a history of hemorrhage who underwent radiosurgery at our institution were included and divided into 2 groups (A and B), based on their lesion volume. Group A included 25 patients with lesion volumes >1 cm³, whereas group B included 26 patients with lesion volumes ≤1 cm³. The clinical data of the patients were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

All patients were followed up for more than 4 years after GKRS. The calculated AHR before GKRS was 18.49% in group A and 10.16% in group B. The calculated AHR after GKRS was 5.43% and 0.99% for groups A and B, respectively. Significant differences in AHR after GKRS were identified between group A and group B (P = 0.011). Thirty-seven patients with sporadic CCM (14 in group A, 23 in group B) experienced symptom improvement, and significant differences in symptom improvement were observed between group A and group B (P = 0.009).

CONCLUSIONS

GKRS decreased the risk of hemorrhage and was beneficial for symptomatic improvement in patients with sporadic CCM with a history of hemorrhage. The long-term clinical outcomes for patients with sporadic CCM with small lesion volumes (≤1 cm³) were better than those of patients with sporadic CCM with large lesion volumes (>1 cm³).

The occurrence of neuropathic pain following surgery of brainstem cavernous malformations

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

This study aimed to assess the occurrence and significance of postoperative neuropathic pain (NP) in patients with surgically treated brainstem cavernous malformations (BSCMs).

METHODS

Seventy-four BSCM patients surgically treated between 2003 and 2019 were reviewed for the occurrence of postoperative NP and related treatment. The relevance of BSCM location, preoperative characteristics, influence on functional outcome, postoperative health-related quality of life (HRQOL) and life satisfaction was evaluated.

RESULTS

Six out of 74 patients (8%) suffered from NP. The Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs scores ranged from 12 to 16 (mean 14.28 ± 1.6). Visual analog scale pain was 5.2 ± 2.0. NP had no effect on preoperative characteristics or functional outcome. Bodily pain (HRQOL) and vocational time (life satisfaction) were significantly decreased in NP compared to non-NP patients. Specific BSCM location (regarding brainstem nuclei involved in pain processing) and other preoperative patient- and BSCM-related parameters were not associated with the occurrence of postoperative NP. Three out of six patients were currently under NP-specific treatment. The proportion of patients suffering from postoperative NP (8%) was substantially higher compared to previously published studies. The pain affected the HRQOL of patients, most of whom were insufficiently treated and not satisfied with treatment results.

CONCLUSION

Our findings may help to raise awareness for postoperative NP in BSCM, which is essential to improve diagnosis and initiation of proper treatment, as well as preoperative informed consent of patients.

Children with cavernous malformations of the central nervous system

BACKGROUND

Cavernous malformations (CM) of the central nervous system (CNS) are a rare pathology in the pediatric population that may present with an acute onset of severe neurological symptoms.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to evaluate the clinical presentation, family history, genetic background, radiological features, treatment and outcome of children with CM.

METHODS

This observational cohort study included all children with CM of the CNS diagnosed in the period 2000-2020 at University Children's Hospital in Ljubljana, Slovenia. Whole exome sequencing was utilized.

RESULTS

We identified a cohort of 20 children with CM (mean age 9.3 years, range: 10 days-18.4 years). In our cohort, 16 patients were symptomatic and 4 were asymptomatic; 7 patients had a solitary lesion, and 13 had multiple lesions. Children with multiple lesions become symptomatic at an earlier age compared with children with solitary lesions. We identified five families with familiar cavernous malformation (FCM) syndrome affecting two or more generations; FCM represented 65% of all pediatric cases identified in our study. We confirmed a mutation in FCM associated genes in all but one patient with multiple lesions, with the KRIT1 mutation being the most common.

CONCLUSION

Multiple CM lesions and symptomatic brainstem lesions are associated with worse neurological deficits in pediatric patients. Not all cases of multiple lesions can be linked to mutations in KRIT1, CCM2, or PDCD10, which may indicate that there are other as yet unidentified genes associated with FCM.