Appearance of fluid content in Rathke's cleft cyst is associated with clinical features and postoperative recurrence rates

PURPOSE

The contents of Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) vary from clear and slightly viscous to purulent. Surgical treatment of symptomatic RCCs involves removing the cyst contents, whereas additional cyst-wall opening to prevent reaccumulation is at the surgeon's discretion. The macroscopic findings of the cyst content can reflect the nature of RCCs and would aid in surgical method selection.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the records of 42 patients with symptomatic RCCs who underwent transsphenoidal surgery at our institute between January 2010 and March 2022. According to the intraoperative findings, cyst contents were classified into type A (purulent), type B (turbid white with mixed semisolids), or type C (clear and slightly viscous). Clinical and imaging findings and early recurrence rate (within two years) were compared according to the cyst content type.

RESULTS

There were 42 patients classified into three types. Patients with type C were the oldest (65.4 ± 10.4 years), and type A included more females (92.9%). For magnetic resonance imaging, type-A patients showed contrast-enhanced cyst wall (92.9%), type-B patients had intracystic nodules (57.1%), and all type-C patients showed low T1 and high T2 intensities with larger cyst volumes. Fewer asymptomatic patients had type C. Preoperative pituitary dysfunction was most common in type A (71.4%). Early recurrence was observed in types A and C, which were considered candidates for cyst-wall opening.

CONCLUSION

The clinical characteristics and surgical prognosis of RCCs depend on the nature of their contents.

Endoscopic endonasal surgery of Rathke's cleft cysts-- preoperative imaging evaluation, personalized removal and multilevel sellar floor reconstruction

OBJECTIVES

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) for Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) and the advantages of detailed preoperative imaging evaluation, intraoperative personalized removal and multilevel sellar floor reconstruction.

METHODS

The clinical data of 43 patients with RCCs who were treated by EES in the neurosurgery department of affiliated hospital of Jiangnan University and Wuxi No.2 People's Hospital from January 2018 to January 2023 were retrospectively analyzed. The effectiveness of EES for RCCs was analyzed by imaging information, surgical procedures, symptom improvement and complications.

RESULTS

All 43 RCCs were completely removed by EES, and all clinical symptoms improved to varying degrees. Postoperative relief of headache was achieved in 23 out of 26 patients (88.5 %); there was improvement in 10 out of 13 patients with visual field disorders (76.9 %) and in 8 out of 10 patients with endocrine abnormalities (80 %). New hormonal deficiency was discovered in 7 of all the patients postoperatively. There were 8 patients with postoperative diabetes insipidus and 1 patient with cerebrospinal fluid leakage. The incidence of new hormonal dysfunction and postoperative DI in expanded EES (33.3 %, 33.3 %) was higher than it in conventional EES (4 %, 8 %) (P < 0.05). The average follow-up time was 29.1 ± 14.8 months, and there were no deaths or infections. Three patients presented with cyst recurrence on MRI.

CONCLUSIONS

The clinical manifestations and imaging characteristics of RCCs are variable, and a detailed preoperative review of the imaging is helpful for the development of surgical plans. RCCs can be treated more safely and thoroughly with less trauma and complications by intraoperative personalized removal and multilevel sellar floor reconstruction. The high incidence of new hormonal dysfunction and postoperative DI may be related to the disturbance of the pituitary stalk. EES has unique advantages and high clinical application value for the treatment of RCCs.

The cruciform drain: a technical note on the surgical management of cystic lesions of the sella

BACKGROUND

The postoperative recurrence of cystic lesions of the sella is frequent and may require further surgery for re-drainage.

OBJECTIVE

To tackle this problem, we propose to insert a small cross-shaped drain coursing from the cyst lumen to the suprasellar cistern. At this early stage of innovation, the technique is primarily intended for patients who present with a recurrence.

METHODS

The cruciform drain is fashioned from the tip of a ventricular catheter and is inserted under endoscopic vision. We retrospectively reviewed the pre- and postoperative records of patients in whom this technique was implemented.

RESULTS

A cruciform drain was placed in five patients since the introduction of the technique into our practice in 2018. The use of the cruciform drain did not impact upon the expected surgical workflow nor was it associated with adverse intraoperative events, but three patients did develop a postoperative CSF leak that was successfully treated in all cases. None of the patients showed re-collection of their cysts on early radiological follow-up.

CONCLUSION

The cruciform drain is intended to prevent the renewed build-up of cystic fluid by allowing it to flow through and around the drain into the subarachnoid space. We have modified our repair protocol in response to the observed high CSF leak rate, as a basis for further development of the technique. Studies involving long-term follow-up will also be required to assess its efficacy in reducing cyst recurrence.

Recurrence of Rathke's Cleft Cyst Following Surgery and Histopathological Considerations for Recurrence: A Case Presentation

Recurrence of Rathke's cleft cysts (RCC) following surgery is not uncommon. We present a 33-year-old male patient with chronic headache and visual disturbances whose MRI showed mostly cystic, suprasellar mass with peripheral enhancement. Endoscopic extended transsphenoidal approach and tumor resection was performed and RCC was pathologically confirmed postoperatively. Early recurrence was first suspected at 3 months following surgery, and his serial MRIs showed a recurred mass without associated clinical symptoms. Upon further histopathological study, extensive squamous metaplasia and high Ki-67 were seen. Also, in this study, we discuss important factors associated with cyst recurrence following surgery.

Rathke's cleft cyst discovered with ruptured anterior communicating artery aneurysm: a case report

INTRODUCTION

Rathke's cleft cysts are thought to have a benign clinical outcome apart from associated hypopituitarism and visual defects. Synchronous central nervous system lesions, including pituitary adenoma and intracerebral aneurysms, are rarely reported. Diagnosis of Rathke's cleft cyst after presenting with a subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a ruptured arterial aneurysm is reported only once before.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 33-year-old Sri Lankan female presented with a subarachnoid hemorrhage due to a ruptured anterior communication artery aneurysm. She underwent pterional craniotomy and aneurysm clipping. She was found to have partial cranial diabetes insipidus and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. She had a cystic lesion occupying enlarged sella turcica with characteristics of a Rathke's cleft cyst. Subsequently, she underwent trans-sphenoidal excision of the sellar lesion. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of Rathke's cleft cyst.

CONCLUSIONS

Rare co-occurrence of a Rathke's cleft cyst and an anterior communicating artery aneurysm would have been missed if subtle manifestations atypical for subarachnoid hemorrhage were not further pursued. This could have led to progressive visual deterioration and hypopituitarism.

Incidence and factors associated with the recurrence of Rathke's cleft cyst after surgery: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Backgroud

Recurrence of Rathke's cleft cyst (RCC) is not uncommon after surgery, and the associated factors and incidence of relapse deserve a systematic summary.

Methods

This study was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines. The Pubmed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases were searched until September 12, 2022. Studies with significant results of recurrent factors or specific incidences of RCC recurrence and mean/median follow-up time were included. Based on a protocol of a 2-year interval grouping, included studies were categorized into four groups with follow-up periods  <24 months, 24-48 months, 48-72 months, and ≥72 months, respectively. Quality assessment was performed using the NOS score. Pooled estimations were computed by using a random-effects model in the STATA "metaprop" command. Publication bias was assessed visually through a funnel plot and statistically through Egger's linear regression test and Begg's correlation test.

Results

A total of 44 studies were included containing 2,539 cases. Squamous metaplasia was the most commonly reported factor, followed by the extent of cyst removal. The other factors were reported individually. The pooled overall incidences of RCC recurrence after surgery in four groups of the follow-up period were 7.4% (95%CI = 4.1-11.3%) in <24 months, 13.1% (95%CI = 9.7-17.0%) in 24-48 months, 13.7% (95%CI = 7.7-21.0%) in 48-72 months, and 33.8% (95%CI = 19.6-49.6%) in ≥72 months. The pooled symptomatic incidences were 2.3% (95%CI = 0.4-5.1%) in <24 months, 5.6% (95%CI = 3.6-7.9%) in 24-48 months, 5.9% (95%CI = 2.4-10.6%) in 48-72 months, and 14.1% (95%CI = 6.0-24.5%) in ≥72 months. A dramatic increase in recurrent incidence was observed when the follow-up period was more than 72 months in both overall and symptomatic recurrence. A similar trend of recurrence was found in subgroup analyses stratified by publication year, cohort size, and cyst resection strategy.

Conclusion

This study systematically reviewed recurrent factors and described the profile of trends in RCC recurrent incidence after surgery with a follow-up time based on a protocol of a 2-year interval, finding a dramatic increase in recurrent rates with a follow-up period of more than 72 months. This encouraged us to put forward a recommendation of at least a 6-year follow-up after surgery for patients with RCC.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, identifier: CRD42021278970.

Expanded Endonasal Endoscopic Approach for Suprasellar Rathke Cleft Cyst: Treatment Outcome and Surgical Nuances

OBJECTIVE

Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign lesions originating from remnants of the Rathke pouch. RCCs have been classified into the intrasellar-based or purely suprasellar types. This research aims to study the optimal treatment nuances and evaluate the surgical outcomes of this distinct type of RCCs.

METHODS

This study retrospectively reviewed 36 patients with purely suprasellar RCCs who were treated by expanded endonasal endoscopic approach (EEA) from September 2018 to January 2021. The demographic data, presenting symptoms, endocrine status, imaging findings, operative details, and surgical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

According to the relationship with pituitary stalk, the suprasellar RCCs can be divided into 2 different growth patterns: intrastalk cyst (ISC, 52.8%) and extrastalk cyst (ESC, 47.2%). Preoperative endocrine dysfunctions occurred more in patients with ISC than ESC (P = 0.007), which are characterized by hypoadrenalism (P = 0.004) and hypogonadism (P = 0.008). Operation exerted different impacts on endocrine functions between ISC and ESC (P = 0.012). When identifying by single hypothalamic-pituitary axis, 4 patients with normal endocrine function developed a new hormonal deficit, 14 patients with preoperative endocrine dysfunctions benefited from our expanded EEA surgical treatment, and 3 of them completely recovered from the endocrinopathy after surgery. The postoperative endocrinopathy was positively associated with the numbers of preoperative abnormal endocrinal axes. Thirty-four (94.4%) patients had achieved gross total resection. Pituitary stalk was intactly preserved in 23 of 36 patients (63.9%), partly preserved in 10 patients, and not preserved in 3 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Purely suprasellar RCCs are a distinct type of RCCs, which originate from the pituitary stalk above the diaphragmatic sellae, and the treatment strategy via expanded EEA is a rational choice. Classification based on growth patterns would be beneficial to reduce endocrine disorders after surgery.

Endoscopic Treatment of Rathke’s Cleft Cysts: The Case for Simple Fenestration

Background: Rathke’s cleft cysts (RCC) arise from the pars intermedia because of incomplete regression of the embryologic Rathke pouch. A subset of RCC becomes symptomatic causing headaches, visual and endocrinological disturbances such that surgical intervention is indicated. Several points in surgical management remain controversial including operative strategy (simple fenestration (SF) vs complete cyst wall resection (CWR)) as well as reconstructive techniques. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted of pathologically confirmed RCC operated on by endoscopic endonasal approach from 2006 to 2019. Pre-operative symptoms, imaging characteristics, operative strategy, symptom response, complications and recurrences were recorded. Results: Thirty-nine patients were identified. Thirty-three underwent SF and six underwent CWR. Worsening pituitary function was significantly increased with CWR (50%) compared to SF (3%) (p = 0.008). All patients underwent “closed” reconstruction with a post-operative CSF leak rate of 5% (3% SF vs 16% CWR, p = 0.287). Six (15%) recurrences necessitating surgery were reported. Recurrence rates stratified by surgical technique (18% SF vs 0% CWR, p = 0.564) were not found to be significantly different. Conclusions: The current series illustrates variability in the surgical management of RCCs. SF with closed reconstruction is a reasonable operative strategy for most symptomatic RCCs cases while CWR can be reserved for selected cases.

Natural course of Rathke's cleft cysts and risk factors for progression

OBJECTIVE

Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) are relatively common and often detected incidentally. They are usually asymptomatic and managed conservatively. However, little is known about their natural history. Thus, the authors aimed to examine the natural course of RCCs and identify the risk factors for their progression.

METHODS

This retrospective study examined 229 patients (median age 43.0 years) diagnosed with RCCs by MRI and followed up without surgery (median period 36.6 months). The median cyst height on the initial MRI was 10 mm. Progression or regression of RCC was defined as cyst height changes of ≥ 1 mm.

RESULTS

In total, 23 (10.0%) RCCs progressed, whereas 73 (31.9%) RCCs spontaneously regressed. The remaining 133 were noted to be stable throughout the follow-up period. Patients with progressed RCCs were significantly older than those with stable RCCs. In patients with acute headache as an initial symptom, RCCs were significantly more likely to spontaneously regress. New symptoms occurred in 6 patients, 5 of whom underwent surgery for RCC progression. Of these 6 patients, 1 patient had persistent adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency and 1 patient developed diabetes insipidus. Kaplan-Meier analysis results showed RCC progression and new symptom development rates to be 12.0% and 4.1% at 5 years and 13.7% and 5.7% at 10 years, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

RCCs rarely progress or cause new symptoms in the long term. Patients with asymptomatic RCC should be followed up for at least 5 years to ensure RCC inactivity. RCCs in older adults may require greater surveillance.

Rathke’s cleft cysts: A single-center case series

Background:

Rathke’s cleft cysts (RCCs) are common benign sellar or suprasellar lesions. The aim of this study is to report our experience on the management of 27 RCC cases.

Methods:

We retrospectively analyzed a series of 27 patients with symptomatic RCC who were referred to our department between January 2016 and January 2020. Data regarding patients’ demographics, clinical evaluations, laboratory and neuroimaging findings, pathologic records, surgical treatment, and complications were extracted from our electronic database. All patients underwent RCC removal through a direct endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal (EETS) approach, except for two cases.

Results:

Data of 27 patients (3 men and 24 women; mean age: 38 years) with symptomatic RCC were reviewed. The most common presenting symptom was headache, occurring in 20 (74.0%) patients. In 16 (59.2%) cases, the tumor was primarily located in the sella turcica. Nine (33.3%) cases exhibited a secondary suprasellar extension.

Conclusion:

Our experience with RCC patients showed that EETS is a safe method of treatment, with minimal recurrence.

Surgical outcomes and quality of life in Rathke's cleft cysts undergoing endoscopic transsphenoidal resection: a multicentre study and systematic review of the literature

OBJECTIVE

To establish the effect of endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) on quality-of-life (QoL) in symptomatic Rathke cleft cyst (RCC).

METHODS

Analysis of 38 patients with RCC treated by EES, with regular overall (ASBQ-35) and sinonasal-specific (SNOT-22) QoL assessment during the first postoperative year. A systematic literature review of large case series was performed with pooled analysis.

RESULTS

In our series, mean age was 53.6 years with a female predominance (73.7%). Larger cysts were seen in males (p < 0.01), those with hypogonadism (p = 0.04), and visual dysfunction (p = 0.04). Complete normalisation of vision was seen in 83.3%. Persistence of visual dysfunction postoperatively was associated with diabetes (p = 0.005), hypertension (p = 0.02), suprasellar only location (p = 0.001), and monocular field cut (p = 0.02). Surgery did not significantly effect hormonal function. Sinonasal QoL transiently worsened after surgery, resolving within 3 weeks. A parallel transient worsening of overall QoL normalised by 6 weeks, and remained at preoperative baseline thereafter. These results were comparable to the literature, where 76.4% demonstrated improvement of vision and 13.1% had recurrence after treatment. There was no significant difference in outcomes between EES and microscopic approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

We report longitudinal QoL outcomes in RCC for the first time. Vision commonly improves with surgery, but endocrinopathy is likely to persist. Microvascular risk-factors may compromise visual improvement. Surgery causes a transient worsening of sinonasal symptoms that resolves within 3-6 weeks, but patients may not experience significant improvement in QoL within the first postoperative year.

Professor Rathke's gift to neurosurgery: the cyst, its diagnosis, surgical management, and outcomes

PURPOSE

Rathke cleft cysts (RCC) are a target for transsphenoidal surgery when symptomatic; however, the surgical techniques and outcomes continue to be of interest. Our goal is to highlight nuances in diagnosis, surgical philosophy and techniques, and outcomes.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed a single surgeon experience in a contemporary series of RCC from April 2008 through December 2019. The clinical presentation, radiographic studies, intraoperative findings, histopathological diagnosis, postoperative complications, and outcome data were recorded and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 131 endoscopic endonasal operations were performed on 116 patients (30 male, 86 female), with an average age of 39 years. We identified 102 patients without prior surgery, and 14 patients with prior surgery elsewhere. Postoperative complications included transient diabetes insipidus (DI) (n = 23, 20%), permanent DI (n = 5, 4%), SIADH (n = 6, 5%), epistaxis (n = 6, 5%), postoperative infection (n = 3, 2.5%), postoperative CSF leak (n = 1, < 1%), intrasellar hematoma (n = 1, < 1%), and stroke (n = 1, < 1%). Visual improvement was observed in 74% (n = 31/42) of patients presenting with visual loss, and headache improvement in 86% (n = 80/93). Overall, the recurrence rate in our cohort was 11%, with a lower recurrence rate seen in males (p = 0.02). The median follow-up duration was 15.2 months (interquartile range 1.7-52.3) CONCLUSION: Our results reflect the philosophy of a conservative surgical approach, designed to preserve normal pituitary function, and avoid DI, while achieving the maximal feasible resection. Evacuation of the cyst contents and meticulous sampling of the cyst wall when possible for histopathological diagnosis are crucial. The postoperative relief of symptoms and signs is gratifying, as are the overall rates of recurrence and outcomes.

Rathke's cleft cysts following transsphenoidal surgery: long-term outcomes and development of an optimal follow-up strategy

BACKGROUND

In patients with symptomatic Rathke's cleft cyst, transsphenoidal surgery is highly effective at preventing further visual loss and usually allows for some recovery of vision. However, cyst recurrence and the need for re-operation are well recognized. To this end, the aim of this study was to investigate patterns of recurrence and long-term outcomes and to use this information to develop an optimal follow-up strategy.

METHOD

A prospectively maintained database was searched over a 10-year period between 1 January 2008 and the 1 January 2018 to identify all adults that underwent transsphenoidal surgery with a new diagnosis of Rathke's cleft cyst. A retrospective case note review was performed for each patient to extract data on their presentation, investigation, treatment, and outcome.

RESULTS

In all, 61 eligible patients were identified. The median follow-up was 34 months (range 2-112 months). In the 22 patients with pre-operative visual loss, the outcomes at 6 months were as follows: normal vision (2/22; 9.1%), improved but not normal (7/22; 31.8%), stable (12/22; 54.5%), worse but not blind (1/22; 4.5%), and blind (0/22; 0%). The overall rate of regrowth and re-operation in our study was 19.7 and 11.5%, respectively. The only factor that was significantly associated with recurrence was the presence of residual cystic disease on the post-operative MRI (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

We propose a follow-up strategy that stratifies patients at "low risk" if there is no residual cyst, with increasing interval scans, or "high risk" if there is residual cyst, with annual visual assessment and scans.

Endoscopic endonasal cyst fenestration into the sphenoid sinus using the mucosa coupling method for symptomatic Rathke's cleft cyst: a novel method for maintaining cyst drainage to prevent recurrence

OBJECTIVE

Rathke's cleft cyst (RCC) is a benign cystic lesion with a relatively high incidence of local recurrence that occasionally requires repeat surgery. To prevent recurrence, simple cyst fenestration and drainage of the cyst contents to the sphenoid sinus is recommended, but it occasionally recurs. The authors postulated that obstruction of fenestration is a main cause of recurrence, and they developed a method, named the "mucosa coupling method (MC method)," that maintains persistent drainage. In this method, the RCC epithelium and the mucosa of the sphenoid sinus are connected, which promotes re-epithelialization between the two epithelia, maintaining persistent drainage. The outcome of this method was compared with that of conventional cyst fenestration.

METHODS

In a consecutive series of 40 patients with RCC, the surgical strategy was changed during the study period: from December 2009 to September 2014 (the conventional period), 24 patients were scheduled to be treated using the conventional fenestration method, whereas from September 2014 to September 2017 (the MC period), 16 patients were scheduled to be treated using the MC method. However, because of an intraoperative CSF leak, the fenestration was closed during surgery in 3 patients in the conventional period and 2 in the MC period; therefore, these 5 patients were excluded from the analysis. Twenty-one patients treated with the conventional fenestration method (conventional group) and 14 patients treated with the MC method (MC group) were analyzed. All patients regularly underwent MRI after surgery to detect reaccumulation of cyst contents. The rate of reaccumulation with and without reoperation, visual outcomes, endocrinological outcomes, and postoperative complications were compared between these two groups.

RESULTS

The median follow-up period in all 35 patients was 48.0 months (range 1-96 months), 54.0 months (range 1-96 months) in the conventional group and 35.5 months (range 12-51 months) in the MC group. No reaccumulation was detected on MRI in the 14 patients in the MC group, whereas it was noted in 9 (42.9%) of 21 patients in the conventional group, and 2 of these 9 patients required repeat surgery. There were no significant differences in visual and endocrinological outcomes and complications between these two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

The MC method for RCC is effective for preventing obstruction of cyst fenestration, which contributes to preventing cyst reaccumulation. Furthermore, this method is equivalent to the conventional fenestration method in terms of visual and endocrinological outcomes and the complication rate.

Recurrent Rathke's Cleft Cysts: Incidence and Surgical Management in a Tertiary Pituitary Center over 2 Decades

BACKGROUND

Limited data exist pertaining to outcomes following surgery for recurrent Rathke's cleft cysts (RCC).

OBJECTIVE

To determine treatment outcomes in patients undergoing reoperation for recurrent or residual RCCs.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of 112 consecutive RCC operations in 109 patients between 1995 and 2017 was conducted.

RESULTS

Eighteen patients underwent 21 RCC reoperations with a mean follow-up of 58 mo. Patient symptoms prior to reoperation included headaches (14, 66.7%) and vision loss (12, 57.1%). Thirteen of 18 patients (72.2%) required hormone supplementation prior to reoperation including 5 with diabetes insipidus (DI). Mean RCC diameter was 16 mm and 76% had suprasellar extension. Compared to index RCC cases, intraoperative cerebrospinal fluid leak repair was more common in reoperation cases (15/21, 71% vs 43/91, 47%, P = .05). There was 1 carotid artery injury without neurological sequelae, and 2 postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leaks (9.5%). Rates of transient hyponatremia (3/10, 30% vs 4/91, 4.4%, P = .04) and transient DI (5/10, 50% vs 17/91, 18.7%, P = .04) were higher in the reoperation vs index group. Improved headaches and vision were reported in 4/12 (33%) and 8/12 (61.5%) of RCC reoperation patients, respectively. Two patients developed new permanent DI. A higher proportion of reoperation patients had RCC squamous metaplasia (24% vs 5.4%, P = .02) or wall inflammation (42.9% vs 2.2%, P < .001) on pathological examination.

CONCLUSION

Reoperation for RCCs is generally safe at tertiary pituitary centers and often results in improved vision. Hypopituitarism is less likely to improve following reoperation for recurrent RCCs. Several histopathological features may help characterize "atypical RCCs" with a higher likelihood of recurrence/progression.

Recurrence of Rathke's cleft cysts based on gross total resection of cyst wall: a meta-analysis

Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign growths of the embryological Rathke's pouch. Surgical decompression provides effective symptomatic relief in most cases; however, the effect of gross total resection (GTR) of the cyst wall on recurrence, as well as pituitary function, is unclear. The aim of this meta-analysis was to pool the current literature and ascertain the recurrence control afforded by GTR of the cyst wall compared with subtotal resection (STR). Searches of seven electronic databases from inception to January 2019 were conducted following PRISMA guidelines, resulting in 476 articles to be screened. Outcomes were analyzed using meta-analysis of proportions. A total of 10 retrospective cohort studies satisfied selection criteria, describing 655 surgically managed RCC cases, with 254 (39%) and 401 (61%) achieving GTR and STR of the cyst wall, respectively. GTR was associated with significantly reduced overall RCC recurrence by fixed-effects (FE) modeling (RR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.45-0.96), but not by random effects (RE) modeling (RR, 0.75; 95% CI, 0.51-1.12). Based on both models, GTR was associated with significantly reduced symptomatic recurrence (RE model, RR, 0.37, 95% CI, 0.14-0.95) and significantly increased postoperative diabetes insipidus (RE model, RR, 2.60; 95% CI, 1.34-5.03). There was insufficient data to evaluate other pituitary axes in this context. The current evidence indicates that GTR of the RCC cyst wall has the potential to affect the incidence of overall and symptomatic RCC recurrences, as well as drive postoperative DI incidence. However, expectations of clinical and pragmatic benefit following cyst wall resection should be titrated carefully against the potential for postoperative and pituitary morbidities which currently remain poorly defined. Greater granularity is required to understand all factors that can influence recurrence and quality of life when evaluating resection of RCC.

Entirely Suprasellar Rathke Cleft Cysts: Clinical Features and Surgical Efficacy of Endoscopic Endonasal Transtuberculum Sellae Approach

BACKGROUND

Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) arise from the remnant of Rathke pouch and are usually found in the intermediate lobe. In most cases, RCCs remain intrasellar and extend into the suprasellar region. Rarely, they emerge entirely into the suprasellar cistern-entirely suprasellar Rathke cleft cyst (ESSRCC).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed medical records of 7 patients (5.5%) with ESSRCC among 128 patients with a diagnosis of RCC from January 1994 to September 2018. Of RCC cases, 70 were treated surgically. Patient age and sex, symptoms, magnetic resonance imaging findings, cyst diameter, presence of preoperative or postoperative hypopituitarism, operative procedures and complications, and functional outcomes at the final follow-up were investigated.

RESULTS

All patients with ESSRCC were women with mean age 45.7 years (range, 29-69 years) at diagnosis. All patients experienced headache, mainly in the retro-orbital region. Mean ESSRCC diameter was 9.9 mm (range, 6-14 mm). Most cases exhibited hyperintensity on both T1-weighted and T2-weighted imaging. The endoscopic endonasal transtuberculum sellae approach relieved headache effectively and safely in 5 patients. Postoperative endocrinologic functions were almost entirely preserved. No patient experienced recurrence during the follow-up period.

CONCLUSIONS

RCCs should be considered in the differential diagnosis of suprasellar cysts. The endoscopic endonasal transtuberculum sellae approach has an advantage in visualizing these lesions owing to the direction of light from the endoscope. Headache could be treated effectively with the endoscopic endonasal transtuberculum sellae approach without recurrence of cysts or pituitary dysfunction.

High prevalence of adrenal insufficiency at diagnosis and headache recovery in surgically resected Rathke's cleft cysts-a large retrospective single center study

BACKGROUND

Rathke's cleft cysts (RCC) are lesions that arise from Rathke's pouch. Though frequently incidental, resulting symptoms in a minority of cases are indicators for surgical resection, which may prove beneficial.

OBJECTIVE

To characterize a cohort of surgically-resected RCC cases at Oregon Health & Science University; tabulate associated hormonal imbalances and symptoms, possible symptom reversal with surgery, determine recurrence risk; identify predictors of recurrence and headache improvement.

METHOD

Electronic records of all RCC resected cases (from 2006-2016; 11 years) were retrospectively reviewed. Patients had been evaluated by one neuroendocrinologist using a uniform protocol.

RESULTS

A pathological RCC diagnosis was established in 73 of 814 (9%) surgical pituitary cases. The RCC cohort was 77% (n = 56/73) female, mean age was 39.5 ± 14.9 years at first surgery, and at presentation headache was reported in 88% and visual defects/diplopia in 18% of patients. Initial RCC maximum diameter was 1.3 ± 0.7 cm. The most frequent hormonal deficit was cortisol; 24% of patients had a new adrenal insufficiency (AI) diagnosis, however, 36% also had AI at 3 months post-operatively. Mean follow up was 4.0 ± 4.5 years. Two-thirds of patients (41/62) had headache improvement 3 months post-operatively. Post-operative imaging revealed no residual cyst in 58% (38/65). In those patients with no residual RCC, 29% had recurrence and 71% had long lasting cure. From the 42% (27/65) of patients with residual cyst on post-operative imaging; 59% (16/27) remained stable, 26% (7/27) progressed and 15% (4/27) regressed.

CONCLUSION

Symptomatic RCC present mostly in women, with a high proportion reporting headaches. Prevalence of AI at diagnosis is high. Surgery may not achieve adrenal axis recovery, but renders a high percentage of headache improvement. Approximately 25% of RCC will recur by 4 years postoperatively. Clinicians should cautiously screen patients with symptomatic RCC, regardless of lesion size for AI.

Long-term surgical outcomes following transsphenoidal surgery in patients with Rathke's cleft cysts

OBJECTIVE

Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign epithelial lesions of the sellar region typically treated via a transsphenoidal approach with cyst fenestration and drainage. At present, there is limited evidence to guide patient selection for operative treatment. Furthermore, there is minimal literature describing factors contributing to cyst recurrence.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective analysis of 109 consecutive cases of pathology-confirmed RCCs treated via a transsphenoidal approach at a single center from 1995 to 2016. The majority of cases (86.2%) involved cyst fenestration, drainage, and partial wall resection. Long-term outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 109 surgeries in 100 patients were included, with a mean follow-up duration of 67 months (range 3-220 months). The mean patient age was 44.6 years (range 12-82 years), and 73% were women. The mean maximal cyst diameter was 14.7 mm. Eighty-eight cases (80.7%) were primary operations, and 21 (19.3%) were reoperations. Intraoperative CSF leak repair was performed in 53% of cases and was more common in reoperation cases (71% vs 48%, p < 0.001). There were no new neurological deficits or perioperative deaths. Two patients (1.8%) developed postoperative CSF leaks. Transient diabetes insipidus (DI) developed in 24 cases (22%) and permanent DI developed in 6 (5.5%). Seven cases (6.4%) developed delayed postoperative hyponatremia. Of the 66 patients with preoperative headache, 27 (44.3%) of 61 reported postoperative improvement and 31 (50.8%) reported no change. Of 31 patients with preoperative vision loss, 13 (48.1%) reported subjective improvement and 12 (44.4%) reported unchanged vision. Initial postoperative MRI showed a residual cyst in 25% of cases and no evidence of RCC in 75% of cases. Imaging revealed evidence of RCC recurrence or progression in 29 cases (26.6%), with an average latency of 28.8 months. Of these, only 10 (9.2% of the total 109 cases) were symptomatic and underwent reoperation.

CONCLUSIONS

Transsphenoidal fenestration and drainage of RCCs is a safe and effective intervention for symptomatic lesions, with many patients experiencing improvement of headaches and vision. RCCs show an appreciable (although usually asymptomatic) recurrence rate, thereby mandating serial follow-up. Despite this, full RCC excision is typically not recommended due to risk of hypopituitarism, DI, and CSF leaks.

The long-term recurrence of Rathke's cleft cysts as predicted by histology but not by surgical procedure

OBJECTIVE

Patients with symptomatic Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) managed by surgical treatment often experience recurrence. The authors attempted to clarify the outcome of surgically treated RCCs over a long-term follow-up period.

METHODS

Ninety-one consecutive RCC patients with a follow-up period of more than 12 months (mean 80.2 months, range 12–297 months) were retrospectively studied. The authors examined the clinical features and postoperative course of patients who experienced a reaccumulation of cyst contents visible on MRI after the initial surgery, and they investigated data from the patients who underwent reoperation for symptomatic recurrent RCCs.

RESULTS

Reaccumulation of cyst contents occurred in 36 patients (39.6%). In 34 of these patients, a reaccumulation occurred in the first 5 years after surgery. The initial cysts in these patients were most often large, with squamous metaplasia in the cyst walls. Thirteen patients (14.3%) with recurrent symptoms underwent a reoperation, and 10 of the 13 patients had a reaccumulation of RCCs within the 1st year after surgery. The reoperations were performed in the 1st year (61.5%) or several years later (23.1%). Patients were likely to initially have had a visual disturbance and the cyst walls likely included squamous metaplasia. However, no association was observed between the incidence of reaccumulation/reoperation of RCCs and the surgical procedure for RCCs.

CONCLUSIONS

The reaccumulation rate of RCC is high in the long-term period, and it is associated with the histological findings but not with the surgical procedure. Long-term monitoring, for a period of at least 5 years, should therefore be conducted to identify and assess any RCC reaccumulation.

Pediatric symptomatic Rathke cleft cyst compared with cystic craniopharyngioma

INTRODUCTION

Symptomatic Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) are rarely detected in neuroradiological screening and are less commonly found in children than in adults. However, when RCCs are observed in children, it is important to carefully distinguish a RCC from a cystic craniopharyngioma (CP) even if surgically treated or conservatively followed up.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of clinical data from 11 patients with symptomatic RCCs whose ages were under 18 years and compared the data with data from 15 age- and sex-matched patients with cystic CP who were treated at our institute.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients with RCCs was 12.2 years (range, 6-18). There were six males and five females. As initial symptoms, nine patients presented with headache, while two each had impaired visual function, diabetes insipidus, and activity loss. The 14 patients with CP suffered from impaired visual function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) mainly showed hyperintensity on T1-weighted images (WIs) and hypointensity on T2-WI in patients with RCC. However, patients with CP had characteristic hyperintensity on T2-WI. The average maximum diameter of the RCCs was 19.0 mm on average (range, 8-33 mm). The RCCs were thus significantly smaller than CPs (34.9 mm; range, 21-54 mm). The RCCs were usually oval or dumbbell-shaped and regular in appearance, while the larger CPs were lobular and irregular. A preoperative endocrinological evaluation revealed insufficiencies in four axes in five patients with RCC. Postoperative endocrinological status improved in three patients, remained unchanged in three, and worsened in one. The gonadotropin axis was damaged in a majority (nine) of the patients with CP preoperatively. Postoperative evaluation revealed deficits in five axes in 14 patients with CP, which is a significantly different trend than observed in patients with RCC. Eight patients underwent surgical procedures (transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) in four, craniotomy in four). Two of these patients experienced a recurrence of the cysts. One of these patients subsequently underwent two craniotomies followed by radiation and other underwent TSS. Among the three conservatively treated patients, two experienced a transient worsening of their symptoms along with cyst enlargement. However, none of the three conservatively treated patients required an operation.

CONCLUSIONS

When RCCs become symptomatic in children, the most common symptom they lead to is headache. The cysts are commonly small, regular, and oval in shape. Hypointensity of cyst contents on MRI is a characteristic of RCCs, which distinguishes them from CPs. Surgical intervention can be effective and lead to the relief of symptoms without a high rate of complications. However, there seems to be a relatively high recurrence rate following surgery. Thus, if the patient's symptoms remain minor, the surgical treatment option should be used only when prudent, as the patient's symptoms may improve over time.

Transsphenoidal surgery for Rathke’s cleft cyst can reduce headache severity and frequency

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of transsphenoidal surgery for Rathke’s cleft cyst(RCC) on headache frequency, severity, and duration.

METHODS

The medical records of 43 consecutive patients who underwent transsphenoidal resection of a pathologically-proven RCC at our institution by the senior author (E.R.L.) between April 2008 and April 2014 were reviewed. Patients were called by telephone and asked to answer questions about the severity, location, type, duration,and quality of their headaches, both pre- and postoperatively.This information was joined with detailed data collected directly from each patient’s medical record regarding headaches upon presentation and at 1-week,6-week, 3-month, and annual post-operative appointments.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (53 %) responded to our telephone survey after repeated attempts at contact. Median follow-up was 64 months (range 6–83 months). Of these patients, 19 (82.6 %) reported pre-operative headaches,compared to 12 (52.2 %) who reported post-operative headaches (OR = 1.75, p = 0.02). Average headache severity on a 1–10 scale decreased from 6.4 (SD = 2.0)pre-operatively to 3.4 (SD = 1.9) post-operatively (p = 0.006), while average maximum severity decreased from 8.6 (SD = 2.2) pre-operatively to 4.0 (SD = 3.3)post-operatively (p<0.001). The frequency of headaches also decreased, from 18.1 (SD = 12.6) per month pre-operatively to 3.7 (SD = 8.4) per month post-operatively(p<0.001). Overall, 14 patients (60.9 %) reported improvement in their headaches, and three patients(13.0 %) reported that their headaches had completely resolved.

CONCLUSIONS

In a carefully selected patient population,transsphenoidal surgery for RCC can reduce headache monthly frequency, average typical severity, and average maximum severity with minimal risk of morbidity or mortality.

Endoscopic transsphenoidal cisternostomy for nonneoplastic sellar cysts

Background and Importance. Sellar arachnoid cysts and Rathke's cleft cysts are benign lesions that produce similar symptoms, including optochiasmatic compression, pituitary dysfunction, and headache. Studies have reported the use of various surgical treatment methods for treating these symptoms, preventing recurrence, and minimizing operative complications. However, the postoperative cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) fistula and recurrence rate remain significant. Clinical Presentation. In this paper, we present 8 consecutive cases involving arachnoid cysts and Rathke's cleft cysts, which were managed by using drainage and cisternostomy, the intentional fenestration of the cyst into the subarachnoid space, and then meticulously closing sellar floor using dural sutures. The postoperative images, CSF fistula rate, and the recurrence rate were favorable. Conclusion. We report this technique and discuss the benefit of this minimally invasive approach.

A Case of Rathke's Cleft Cyst Associated with Transient Central Adrenal Insufficiency and Masked Diabetes Insipidus

A 73-year-old woman admitted to our hospital because of headache, poor appetite, malaise, weight loss, and vomiting was found to have central adrenal insufficiency and thyrotoxicosis due to silent thyroiditis. Polyuria developed after replacement with glucocorticoid (masked diabetes insipidus), which was controlled with nasal administration of desmopressin. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed a large cystic pituitary mass (18 × 18 × 12 mm) extending suprasellarly to the optic chiasm. Transsphenoidal surgery revealed that the pituitary tumor was Rathke's cleft cyst. Following surgery, replacement with neither glucocorticoid nor desmopressin was needed any more. Therefore, it is suggested that Rathke's cleft cyst is responsible for the masked diabetes insipidus and the central insufficiency. Furthermore, it is speculated that thyrotoxicosis with painless thyroiditis might induce changes from subclinical adrenal insufficiency to transiently overt insufficiency.

Rathke's cleft cyst recurrence after transsphenoidal surgery: a meta-analysis of 1151 cases

Rathke's cleft cysts (RCC) arise from the development of the Rathke's cleft pouch. These commonly occurring cysts are typically asymptomatic, but sometimes present with headaches, endocrine dysfunction, and visual loss. Recurrence is common after either drainage or surgical removal. The purpose of this study was to review published outcomes for RCC management, and determine whether specific factors, including patient demographics, cyst pathology, radiologic parameters, or surgical techniques predispose to their recurrence. A systematic review of studies for RCC from 1990 to 2012 was conducted. Patients were identified using a Medline/PubMed search, and from the bibliographies of relevant articles obtained from the primary search. Relevant studies reporting recurrence rate were identified, and data were extracted regarding patient demographics, presenting symptoms, cyst characteristics, surgical treatment, and outcomes. A meta-analysis for recurrence rates was also performed. Twenty-eight journal articles comprising a total of 1151 RCC revealed an average follow-up of 38 months (range 16-79 months). In the studies reviewed, there was a relatively equal distribution of treatment approaches, with 35% subtotal resection, 33% gross total resection, and 32% complete drainage with wall biopsy. The microsurgical transsphenoidal approach was found to have a higher recurrence rate (14% versus 8%) and new endocrine dysfunction rate (25% versus 10%) compared to the endoscopic approach. The data demonstrates a notable overall recurrence rate for RCC (12.5%). However, there appears to be no conclusive evidence that more aggressive resection of the cyst wall results in lower rates of recurrence.

Individualized surgical strategies for Rathke cleft cyst based on cyst location

OBJECT

An assessment regarding both surgical approaches and the extent of resection for Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) based on their locations has not been reported. The aim of this study was to report the results of a large series of surgically treated patients with RCCs and to evaluate the feasibility of individualized surgical strategies for different RCCs.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 87 cases involving patients with RCCs (16 intrasellar, 50 intra- and suprasellar, and 21 purely suprasellar lesions). Forty-nine patients were treated via a transsphenoidal (TS) approach, and 38 were treated via a transcranial (TC) approach (traditional craniotomy in 21 cases and supraorbital keyhole craniotomy in 17). The extent of resection was classified as gross-total resection (GTR) or subtotal resection (STR) of the cyst wall. Patients were thus divided into 3 groups according to the approach selected and the extent of resection: TS/STR (n = 49), TC/STR (n = 23), and TC/GTR (n = 15).

RESULTS

Preoperative headaches, visual dysfunction, hypopituitarism, and diabetes insipidus (DI) resolved in 85%, 95%, 55%, and 65% of patients, respectively. These rates did not differ significantly among the 3 groups. Overall, complications occurred in 8% of patients in TS/STR group, 9% in TC/STR group, and 47% in TC/GTR group, respectively (p = 0.002). Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage (3%), new hypopituitarism (9%), and DI (6%) were observed after surgery. All CSF leaks occurred in the endonasal group, while the TC/GTR group showed a higher rate of postoperative hypopituitarism (p = 0.7 and p < 0.001, respectively). It should be particularly noted that preoperative hypopituitarism and DI returned to normal, respectively, in 100% and 83% of patients who underwent supraorbital surgery, and with the exception of 1 patient who had transient postoperative DI, there were no complications in patients treated with supraorbital surgery. Kaplan-Meier 3-year recurrence-free rates were 84%, 87%, and 86% in the TS/STR, TC/STR, and TC/GTR groups, respectively (p = 0.9).

CONCLUSIONS

It is reasonable to adopt individualized surgical strategies for RCCs based on cyst location. Gross-total resection does not appear to reduce the recurrence rate but increase the risk of postoperative complications. The endonasal approach seems more appropriate for primarily intrasellar RCCs, while the craniotomy is recommended for purely or mainly suprasellar cysts. The supraorbital route appears to be preferred over traditional craniotomy for its minimal invasiveness and favorable outcomes. The endoscopic technique is helpful for either endonasal or supraorbital surgery.

Partially reversible hypopituitarism in an adolescent with a rathke cleft cyst

Rathke cleft cysts are remnants of the Rathke pouch. Most of them are asymptomatic, but sometimes they can grow enough to cause compression of structures within and/or close to the sella, thus eliciting symptoms such as visual disturbance, pituitary defects, and headache. Asymptomatic cysts can safely be followed up with serial imaging, while the standard treatment for symptomatic lesions is surgical removal. We describe a 14-yr-old boy, admitted for anorexia, fatigue, weight loss, recurrent headache and vomiting. Magnetic resonance imaging showed an intra- and suprasellar cystic lesion, which was surgically removed. Histology was consistent with Rathke’s cleft cyst. Diabetes insipidus and multiple anterior pituitary defects (GH, ACTH and TSH) were found preoperatively, and substitutive therapy was started. No additional hormonal defect appeared after surgery. After 4 yr of follow up, pituitary function was retested, and there were no confirmed GH or ACTH defects, allowing a partial withdrawal of replacement therapy. Our report confirms that pituitary defects, in patients with a Rathke cleft cyst, may recover even year after surgery. Thus, retesting of pituitary axes is indicated during long-term follow up.

Assessment of pre- and postoperative endocrine function in 94 patients with Rathke's cleft cyst

We reviewed 94 patients with Rathke's cleft cyst (RCC) who were surgically treated at Nippon Medical School Hospital between December 1995 and July 2009 to clarify the effect of surgery on their endocrine function. In our statistical analysis we considered their age and sex, the cyst volume, and preoperative MRI findings. Using simple linear- and multiple regression analysis we evaluated the association between these factors and their preoperative hormone baseline levels. To assess pre- and postoperative anterior pituitary function we subjected the results of various hormone loading tests to the Wilcoxon rank sum test. Surgery improved headache and visual impairment in most patients and elevated PRL levels were significantly normalized after surgery (p = 0.004). However, pre- and postoperative anterior pituitary hormone loading tests revealed that the levels of GH, TSH, LH, and FSH were not improved significantly by surgery. Although the ACTH loading test showed postoperative improvement, the change was not statistically significant. We suggest that RCC patients with headache or visual impairment are good candidates for surgery. We also recommend that patients with hyperprolactinemia and those with ACTH deficiency whose MRI findings reveal low-intensity on T1WI and high-intensity on T2WI are likely to benefit from surgery. In contrast, RCC patients with other hormone dysfunctions do not appear to benefit from surgical intervention.

A Rathke's Cleft Cyst Presenting with Apoplexy

The occurrence of symptomatic pituitary hemorrhage into a Rathke's cleft cyst (RCC) is extremely rare. The author reports an interesting case of intra- and suprasellar RCC presented with features of pituitary apoplexy. This 62-year-old woman suffered acute headache, mental confusion, and partial hypopituitarism. The characteristics of the magnetic resonance imaging seemed most compatible with a hemorrhagic pituitary adenoma. Transsphenoidal drainage of the cyst contents confirmed the diagnosis of hemorrhagic RCC and resolved the symptoms. All published data on this rare clinical entity are extracted and reviewed.

Symptomatic Rathke cleft cysts: extent of resection and surgical complications

OBJECT

Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign masses arising from the embryological Rathke pouch, and are commonly treated by transsphenoidal surgery. The authors retrospectively compared RCC extent of resection-either gross-total resection (GTR) or decompression-to the primary outcome measure, which was recurrences resulting in repeat surgery, and the secondary outcome measure, which was complications.

METHODS

Seventy-four patients presenting to the neurosurgical department with RCC were analyzed retrospectively. Sixty-eight patients had a total of 78 surgical procedures, with the diagnosis of RCC confirmed by histological investigation; of these, 61 patients had adequate operative notes for the authors to evaluate extent of resection. Groups were separated into GTR (32 patients) or decompression (subtotal resection or fenestration into the sphenoid sinus; 29 patients) based on operative notes and postoperative imaging. The mean follow-up duration was 60.5 ± 72.1 months (the mean is expressed ± SD throughout).

RESULTS

The average age at the time of the initial surgery was 42.8 ± 17.4 years, and 70% of patients were female. The mean cyst diameter preoperatively was 16.9 ± 17.8 mm. Eight patients had repeat surgery, our primary outcome measure; 3 repeat operations occurred in the GTR group, and 5 in the decompression group. There was no significant difference in recurrence when comparing groups (GTR 9%, decompression 17%; p = 0.36). There were no major complications; however, analysis of postoperative minor complications revealed that 11 (34%) GTRs resulted in surgical complications, whereas the decompression cohort accounted for only 3 complications (10%) (p = 0.03), with diabetes insipidus (6) and CSF leaks (5) being the most common. Gross-total resection also resulted in an increase in postoperative hyperprolactinemia compared with decompression (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

It appears that RCCs require repeat surgery in 13% of cases, and attempted GTR does not appear to reduce the overall rate of recurrence. However, more aggressive resections are associated with more complications in this series.

Rathke's cleft cysts

Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) are benign, sellar and/or suprasellar lesions originating from the remnants of Rathke's pouch. Although a common finding in routine autopsies (12-33% of normal pituitary glands), symptomatic cases are rare and comprise 5-15% of all surgically resected sellar lesions. Small, asymptomatic RCC do not require surgical intervention, and their natural history is not clear. In series of nonoperated presumed RCCs, 26-94% did not progress during follow-up periods up to 9 years. In symptomatic ones, surgery is indicated, aiming to drain the cyst content and safely remove as much of the capsule as possible. Following surgical intervention, headaches and visual field defects improve or resolve in a significant number of patients (40-100% and 33-100%, respectively) and partial hypopituitarism recovers in 14-50%. Data on relapse rates published in the last 15 years are based on variable follow-up periods and show wide variation (between 0% and 33%). The lowest relapse rates have been described in reports with relatively short mean observation periods (<3 years), whereas in those with longer follow-up the relapse rates increase. Most of the relapses occur within 5-6 years, suggesting that follow-up is required for at least 5 years after surgery. Risk factors for relapse include the presence of squamous metaplasia in the cyst wall, cyst size and the presence of inflammation. Long-term sufficiently powered studies aiming to clarify the natural history of asymptomatic RCCs and of those relapsing postoperatively are required.

Optimal surgical approaches for Rathke cleft cyst with consideration of endocrine function

BACKGROUND

Surgical indications for Rathke cleft cyst are not clear.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate postoperative outcomes in terms of endocrine function.

METHODS

The study analyzed a total 73 patients who underwent transsphenoidal surgery. All patients underwent a visual field test, combined pituitary function test, and magnetic resonance imaging before and after surgery. A follow-up combined pituitary function test was performed at 1.5-year intervals.

RESULTS

The mean age at the time of surgery was 35 ± 14 years, and the male/female ratio was 1:1.25 (33/40). The mean follow-up duration after surgery was 59 ± 39 months. The most common symptoms were headache (84%), visual disturbance (48%), and polyuria (38%). After transsphenoidal surgery, 75% of polyuria and 96% of visual field defects were resolved, and pituitary function improved in 42% of patients. The mean age of patients who exhibited worsened hypopituitarism was significantly higher than that of patients who exhibited unchanged or improved hypopituitarism (44 ± 15.7 vs 33 ± 13.5 years; P = .02). Twelve patients (16%) experienced recollection of cyst, but none required reoperation. Five of the recollected cysts presented with characteristics that were different from those of the initial lesions, and 2 recollected cysts underwent spontaneous regression.

CONCLUSION

Minimal incision with radical removal of cyst content is reasonable to prevent the development of endocrine disturbances and other complications. Individualized risks and benefits must be assessed before a decision is reached regarding surgery and surgical method. Patients with recurrent Rathke cleft cyst require careful follow-up with special attention rather than a hasty operation.

Syndrome of alternating hypernatremia and hyponatremia after hypothalamic hamartoma surgery

OBJECT

In this paper, the authors' goal was to describe the occurrence of alternating hypernatremia and hyponatremia in pediatric patients who underwent resection of hypothalamic hamartomas (HHs) for epilepsy. Hypernatremia in patients after pituitary or hypothalamic surgery can be caused by diabetes insipidus (DI), whereas hyponatremia can occur due to a syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone, cerebral salt wasting, or excessive administration of desmopressin (DDAVP). The triphasic response after surgery in the pituitary region can also explain variations in sodium parameters in such cases.

METHODS

One hundred fifty-three patients with HH who underwent surgery were enrolled in a prospective study to monitor outcomes. Of these, 4 patients (2.6%) were noted to experience dramatic alterations in serum sodium values. The medical records of these patients were identified and evaluated.

RESULTS

Patients' ages at surgery ranged from 1.2 to 6.0 years. All patients were girls. Two patients had Delalande Type IV lesions (of 16 total Type IV lesions surgically treated) and 2 had Type III lesions (of 39 total Type III lesions). All patients had a history of gelastic seizures refractory to medication. Seizure frequency ranged from 3 to 300 per day. After surgery, all patients experienced hypernatremia and hyponatremia. The largest fluctuation in serum sodium concentration during hospitalization in a single patient was 53 mEq/L (range 123-176 mEq/L). The mean absolute difference in maximum and minimum sodium values was 38.2 mEq/L. All patients exhibited an initial period of immediate DI (independent of treatment) after surgery followed by a period of hyponatremia (independent of treatment), with a minimum value occurring between postoperative Days 5 and 8. All patients then returned to a hypernatremic state of DI, and 3 patients still require DDAVP for DI management. A second occurrence of hyponatremia lasting several days without DDAVP administration occurred in 2 patients during their hospitalization between periods of hypernatremia. One patient stabilized in the normal range of sodium values prior to discharge from rehabilitation without the need for further intervention. At last follow-up, 3 patients are seizure-free.

CONCLUSIONS

Severe instability of sodium homeostasis with hypernatremia and hyponatremia is seen in up to 2.6% of children undergoing open resection of HH. This risk appears to be related to HH type, with a higher risk for Types III (2 [5.1%] of 39) and IV (2 [12.5%] of 16) lesions. Here, the authors describe alternating episodes of hypernatremia and hyponatremia in the postoperative period following HH surgery. Management of this entity requires careful serial assessment of volume status and urine concentration and will often require alternating salt replacement therapy with DDAVP administration.