Long-term outcome after resection of brainstem hemangioblastomas in von Hippel-Lindau disease

Radiosurgically Treated Recurrent Cerebellar Hemangioblastoma: A Case Report and Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Cystic, sporadic hemangioblastomas (HBLs) represent a unique, therapeutically challenging subset of central nervous system tumors, mainly due to their unpredictable growth patterns and potential for symptomatic progression. This study aims to explore the complexities surrounding the diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management of these lesions.

METHODS

A comprehensive literature review was performed, and a detailed case study of a 56-year-old patient with a cystic, sporadic cerebellar HBL was produced.

RESULTS

The case highlights the multiphasic growth pattern typical of cystic, sporadic HBLs, characterized by periods of dormancy and subsequent rapid expansion. An initial surgical intervention offered temporary control. Tumor recurrence, mainly through cystic enlargement, was treated by SRS. A subsequent recurrence, again caused by cystic growth, eventually led to the patient's death. The intricacies of treatment modalities, focusing on the transition from surgical resection to stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) upon recurrence, are discussed. Parameters indicating impending tumor growth, coupled with symptomatic advances, are also explored.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of cystic, sporadic cerebellar HBLs requires a strategic approach that can be informed by radiological characteristics and tumoral behavior. This study underscores the importance of a proactive, individualized management plan and suggests guidelines that could inform clinical decision making.

Hemangioblastomas and Other Vascular Origating Tumors of Brain or Spinal Cord

Hemangioblastomas (HBs) are highly vascularized, slow-growing, rare benign tumors (WHO grade I). They account for about 2% of intracranial neoplasms; however, they are the most common primary cerebellar tumors in adults. Another frequent seat is the spinal cord (2-10% of primary spinal cord tumors). HBs are constituted by stromal and capillary vascular cells; macroscopically, HBs appear as nodular tumors, with or without cystic components. Although most of the HBs are sporadic (57-75%), they represent a particular component of von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL), an autosomal dominant syndrome with high penetrance, due to a germline pathogenic mutation in the VHL gene, which is a tumor suppressor with chromosomal location on the short arm of chromosome three. VHL disease determines a variety of malignant and benign tumors, most frequently HBs, renal cell carcinomas, pheochromocytomas/paragangliomas, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors, and endolymphatic sac tumors. Up to 20% of cases are due to de novo pathogenic variants without a family history. Many epidemiologic details of these tumors, especially the sporadic forms, are not well known. The median age of patients with sporadic HBS is about 40 years. More than two-third of VHL patients develop one or more central nervous system HBs during their lifetime; in case of VHL, patients at first diagnosis are usually younger than the patients with sporadic tumors. The most common presenting signs and symptoms are related to increased intracranial pressure, cerebellar signs, or spinal cord alterations in case of spinal involvement. Magnetic resonance imaging is the gold standard for the diagnosis, assessment, and follow-up of HBs, both sporadic and syndrome-related; angiography is rarely performed because the diagnosis is easily obtained with magnetic resonance. However, the diagnosis of an asymptomatic lesion does not automatically result in therapeutic actions, as the risks of treatment and the onset of possible neurological deficit need to be balanced, considering that HBs may remain asymptomatic and have a static or slow-growing behavior. In such cases, regular follow-up can represent a valid therapeutic option until the patients remain asymptomatic. There are no actual pharmacological therapies that are demonstrated to be effective for HBs. Surgery represents the primary therapeutic approach for these tumors. Observation or radiotherapy also plays a role in the long-term management of patients harboring HBs, especially in VHL; in few selected cases, endovascular treatment has been suggested before surgical removal. This chapter presents a systematic overview of epidemiology, clinical appearance, histopathological and neuroradiological characteristics of central nervous system HBs. Moreover, the genetic and molecular biology of sporadic and VHL HBS deserves special attention. Furthermore, we will describe all the available therapeutic options, along with the follow-up management. Finally, we will briefly report other vascular originating tumors as hemangioendotheliomas, hemangiomas, or angiosarcomas.

Central nervous system hemangioblastomas: An age-stratified analysis

BACKGROUND

Hemangioblastomas (HBs) are rare and understudied. The impact of age on clinical features, optimal treatment, and postoperative outcome in HBs has not been systemically studied.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed an institutional study in the West China Hospital, including patients diagnosed with hemangioblastomas between October 2011 and October 2016. Clinical data and surgical outcomes were compared among three different age groups (0-20, 21-59, and ≥ 60 years). We also studied surgical prognostic factors.

RESULTS

187 patients (102 males and 85 females) were identified. HBs in spinal locations were more prevalent in children and adolescents, while the most common site in young and old-age adults was the cerebellum (P = 0.023). Risk of Von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (VHL) was negatively correlated with patient age (P = 0.003). 47.6 % of patients aged 0-20, 23 % of patients aged 21-59, and 6.45 % of patients aged ≥60 years were diagnosed with VHL. Older aged patients had a significantly lower risk of VHL and had a lower tumor recurrence rate. Surgical resection was an adequate and sufficient procedure in all age groups with a favorable surgical outcome (P = 0.823). Solid tumor, VHL disease, and localization in the brainstem were associated with poor outcome in patients with hemangioblastomas.

CONCLUSIONS

Our study showed that HBs in elderly patients were mostly included in the cerebellum and had a solid configuration and large size, while HBs in children were mainly localized in the spinal cord. VHL disease was more common in children and adolescents but rare in patients older than 60 years. The present study found no excess surgical mortality and risks for HBs in elderly patients or children than in younger adults.

Combined treatment of a medulla oblongata hemangioblastoma via permanent cysto-cisternal drainage and (postponed) gamma knife radiosurgery: a case report and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Hemangioblastomas are histologically benign tumors with a variable degree of morbidity and mortality based on various factors, including their anatomical location. The following paper illustrates a unique approach of combined therapy of a brainstem hemangioblastoma (HB) not associated with von Hippel-Lindau disease (vHLd) located in the medulla oblongata.

CASE DESCRIPTION

A 21-year-old preschool teacher presented with vertigo, followed by dysphagia, trouble coughing, tongue paresis and headache and vomiting. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed a large cystic lesion with a small intramural nodule located in the left anterolateral medulla oblongata directly behind the vertebral artery. The diagnosis of hemangioblastoma was supported by digital subtraction angiography.

CONCLUSION

Combined therapy consisted primarily of acute surgical fenestration and permanent drainage of the cystic portion of the tumor, due to symptomatic expansion. Follow-up stereotactic gamma knife radiosurgery was performed after 2 years for minor progression of the tumor nodule. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time such approach has been described in the literature for this pathology.

Cumulative surgical morbidity in patients with multiple cerebellar and medullary hemangioblastomas

OBJECTIVE

Patients affected with von Hippel-Lindau disease often develop multiple hemangioblastomas in the cerebellum and spinal cord. Timing of surgical intervention is difficult and depends largely on the anticipated surgical morbidity. However, data regarding surgical outcome after multiple cerebellar and medullary surgeries are scarce. Our objective was to evaluate cumulative surgical morbidity in patients operated on multiple cerebellar and medullary hemangioblastomas and to deduce recommendations for treatment.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis for a consecutive cohort of von Hippel-Lindau patients with surgical treatment of at least two cerebellar and/or medullary hemangioblastomas. Pre- and postoperative functional grades were reviewed in patients' files and compared by Modified Ranking Scale (cerebellar surgeries) or by Modified McCormick Score (medullary surgeries).

RESULTS

Thirty-six patients were surgically treated for at least two cerebellar hemangioblastomas (12 patients), at least two medullary hemangioblastomas (19 patients) or at least two hemangioblastomas in both locations (5 patients). Fourthy-eight cerebellar and 80 medullary procedures were performed in total. On average, multiple cerebellar surgeries caused no clinical deterioration, whereas multiple medullary surgeries led to a slight cumulative deterioration of postoperative functional grades. The severity of this deterioration did not correlate to the number of performed medullary surgeries.

CONCLUSION

Resection of multiple cerebellar hemangioblastomas is not associated with cumulative morbidity. Although there is a certain cumulative surgical morbidity caused by medullary surgeries, its extent does not increase with the number of performed surgeries. Microsurgical removal of asymptomatic tumors with radiographic progression can also be considered for patients with multiple tumors and previous surgeries.

Surgical management and outcome of adult posterior cranial fossa and spinal hemangioblastoma: a 6-case series and literature review

OBJECTIVE

Hemangioblastomas of the posterior cranial fossa and spinal cord in adults are excessively vascularized, well-differentiated, and scarce tumors with no metastatic potential. This paper discusses its surgical management and outcome, pointing out their morphological, radiological, and histopathological aspects. This report based on a personal series of six patients and on a literature review.

METHODS

A single-institution personal 6-case series of adult patients diagnosed and operated on by a senior neurosurgeon (KIA) due to posterior cranial fossa or spinal cord hemangioblastoma was analyzed. For easier understanding of hemangioblastoma, we have classified them into four different types.

RESULTS

The tumors, which were all surgically treated, were located in the posterior cranial fossa in five patients (4 cerebellar, 1 brain stem) and intramedullary in the thoracic spinal cord in one patient. All patients successfully recovered neurologically after a complete tumor resection, having no post-operative neurological deficit or other complications.

CONCLUSION

Surgical management of cerebellar and spinal cord hemangioblastoma in adults is highly dependent on its morphological features, as well as on microsurgical technique applied. Since huge differences exist between the cystic/nodular tumor type (Type 1) and the solid type and its two additional variants (Types 2-4), morphology is the most important consideration when deciding surgical approach. Despite significant morphological differences among different subtypes of hemangioblastomas, their histology appears to be relatively similar. Nonetheless, a meticulous and refined surgical technique has to be utilized to achieve a successful outcome.

Safety and efficacy of surgical treatment for brainstem hemangioblastoma: a meta-analysis

Brainstem hemangioblastomas are benign, highly vascular tumors located in the mesencephalon, pons, and medulla oblongata. Although surgical resection is currently considered the main therapeutic option for symptomatic lesions, evidence supporting the application of microsurgery has not been systematically assessed. This meta-analysis aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of surgical treatment for brainstem hemangioblastomas. A comprehensive search of the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases was performed to identify all English language publications reporting the outcomes of surgical treatment for brainstem hemangioblastomas. Studies from January 1990 to July 2019 with ≥ 10 cases were included. We analyzed the surgical outcomes, including gross total resection, mortality, neurological morbidity, and functional outcome according to the McCormick Scale or Karnofsky Performance Scale. Thirteen studies with 473 cases were included. The pooled proportion of gross total resection was 98% (95% confidence interval (CI), 94-100%). Overall mortality and neurological morbidity were 4 (95% CI, 2-6%) and 13% (95% CI, 7-20%), respectively. Favorable functional outcomes at the last follow-up were achieved in 85% (95% CI, 78-92%) of all patients. Improved or stable functional outcomes at long-term follow-up were achieved in 94% (95% CI, 89-97%) of patients. This meta-analysis revealed that surgical treatment for brainstem hemangioblastomas is technically feasible and effective with lasting patient benefits and cure.

Central nervous system hemangioblastomas in the elderly (over 65 years): Clinical characteristics and outcome analysis

OBJECTIVES

Hemangioblastomas (HBs) in the elderly are very uncommon and have rarely been studied. This retrospective study aimed to identify clinical features, optimal treatment, surgical outcomes and long-term prognostic factors in these rare lesions.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective analysis of HBs patients over 65 years old who underwent surgery from 2008 to 2018 at our department. Clinical data was retrospectively reviewed and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Thirty-three elderly patients with a mean age of 68.76 years were included in this study. Cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord locations accounted for 72.7 %, 18.2 % and 9.1 %. Two patients (6.1 %) were diagnosed as von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome. After mean follow-up of 37.95 ± 22.12 months, clinical symptoms improved in 22 patients (67 %), unchanged in seven patients (21 %) and aggravated in 4 patients (12 %). Only 1(3 %) patient experienced local recurrence during follow-up. Univariate analysis showed tumor size (P = 0.044) and tumor characteristic (cystic or solid) (P = 0.034) were significantly related to long-term outcomes, while multiple logistic regression analysis depicted tumor characteristics were exclusively correlated with outcomes (P = 0.04).

CONCLUSIONS

Our study suggests elderly hemangioblastomas may be different from their younger counterparts in that they often display solid configuration with large size and include more cerebellar tumors. HBs should be included in the differential diagnosis of elderly patients presenting with cerebellar mass. Despite many challenges involved, surgical removal of HBs in this age group is a safe procedure with acceptable risks. They may do not require as frequent follow-up as younger counterparts due to the low associations with VHL disease and tumor recurrence rate.

Imaging Diagnosis of Von Hippel-Lindau Syndrome

INTRODUCTION

Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome is a group of rare autosomal dominant hereditary diseases that involve multiple organs. Due to its high recurrence rate and complex and diverse clinical manifestations, VHL is prone to being either misdiagnosed or missed entirely. Therefore, patients with VHL syndrome have a poor prognosis.

CLINICAL FEATURES

This study reports the details of 2 patients, a 55-year-old male and a 37-year-old female, who were diagnosed as having VHL syndrome with a positive family history. The male patient presented with upper abdominal discomfort 2 years prior to the current study, and was diagnosed in another hospital as having a space-occupying lesion at the head of the pancreas. After undergoing hemangioblastoma resection of the right cerebellar hemisphere 1 month ago, he was admitted to the hospital for recent aggravation of upper abdominal discomfort to receive further diagnosis and treatment. The female patient previously underwent right ovarian cystectomy and T5-T6 intramedullary hemangioblastoma resection. She was diagnosed at another hospital as having pancreatic cancer, and was admitted to the hospital for recent aggravation of upper abdominal discomfort to receive further diagnosis and treatment.

CONCLUSION

The diagnosis and treatment of VHL syndrome is currently relatively difficult. It poses a substantial threat to patients and their families. The early and timely diagnosis and treatment of VHL syndrome can improve patients' prognosis and rates of survival.

Microsurgical Resection of Medulla Oblongata Hemangioblastoma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video

This video demonstrates the microsurgical resection of brainstem hemangioblastoma. The patient is a 32-yr-old woman with Von Hippel Lindau syndrome who presented with quadriparesis and inability to swallow. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the neuroaxis revealed a brainstem cystic lesion with contrast-enhancing tumor nodule right along the posterior aspect of the lower part of medulla oblongata. The surgery was performed in the prone position with suboccipital craniectomy and partial C1 posterior arch removal. The aim of the surgery was to remove the tumor nodule.^1-12

The tumor was separated from the right dorsal nerve roots, and then progressively dissected with coagulation of arterial feeders and draining vein and division of the pia circumferentially. Postoperative MRI revealed complete resection. The patient completely recovered from her quadriparesis and difficulty swallowing.

Assessment of care pattern and outcome in hemangioblastoma

Due to its rarity, current literature assessing prognostic factors and survival outcomes of hemangioblastoma is limited. Patients with histologically confirmed hemangioblastoma were identified from the US National Cancer Data Base. 1488 patients met inclusion criteria. 644 patients underwent gross total resection (GTR), 220 subtotal resection (STR)/biopsy, 60 stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), 15 external beam radiotherapy (EBRT), 51 surgery followed by radiotherapy (SR + RT) and 498 no treatment. Independent predictors of shorter OS included age ≥ 40 (HR, 3.897; 95% CI, 2.341-6.487; p < 0.001), Charlson-Deyo score ≥ 1(HR, 1.756; 95% CI, 1.213-2.544; p = 0.003), tumor location in the brainstem (HR, 1.955; 95% CI, 1.129-3. 384; p = 0.017) compared to cerebellum, no treatment (HR, 2530; 95% CI, 1.533-4.177; p < 0.001) and receipt of EBRT (HR, 2.860; 95% CI, 1.073-7.618; p = 0.036) compared to STR/biopsy. GTR was associated with longer OS (HR 0.617; 95% CI, 0.391-0.974; p = 0.038), while SRS had comparable OS to STR/biopsy. The overall trend of OS by treatment modality was consistent after matching to age- and sex-matched US population data. In patients younger than 40 years, treatment was not a significant predictor of OS. In conclusion, GTR remained the optimal treatment for hemangioblastoma. SRS may perform similarly to surgery alone. Treatment was not a significant predictor of survival in younger patients.

Pediatric central nervous system hemangioblastomas: different from adult forms? A retrospective series of 25 cases

BACKGROUND

Pediatric hemangioblastomas are rare, and the clinical features, timing of surgical intervention, optimal treatment, and clinical outcomes are still unclear.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective study of all patients with CNS hemangioblastomas who were treated at West China Hospital from January 2003 to March 2015. Patients under the age of 16 years were included in the study. The medical records of these patients were reviewed and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-five children (15 females and ten males, [mean age 12.6 ± 4.7 years, range 1-16 years]) presented with hemangioblastomas. Tumors were detected in the cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord in 40, 28, and 32% of patients, respectively. Sixteen children (64%) had VHL syndrome. The most frequent symptoms were those related to increased intracranial pressure. The mean duration of symptoms was 1.5 ± 2.1 months. Preoperative hydrocephalus was noted in 11 children (44%). Gross total resection was achieved in all children. Clinical symptoms improved in 19 children (76%), unchanged in four children (16%), and aggravated in two children (8%), respectively. The mean follow-up was 44.5 ± 32.3 months. Five patients (20%) experienced disease progression. Using univariate analysis, both tumor-associated cysts (P = 0.027) and VHL disease (P = 0.032) were significantly related to postoperative outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

Pediatric hemangioblastomas have many different clinical features compared with adult cases. A high degree of suspicion for VHL disease should be raised in pediatric hemangioblastomas. Despite many challenges involved, surgical outcomes for pediatric hemangioblastomas are favorable. Lifelong follow-up is mandatory to detect the disease progression.

Clinical Features and Surgical Outcomes in Patients with Cerebellopontine Angle Hemangioblastomas: Retrospective Series of 23 Cases

OBJECTIVES

Hemangioblastomas in the cerebellopontine angle (CPA) are uncommon and have rarely been reported. They may be easily misdiagnosed because of the atypical location and clinical and imaging features. The present study aimed to characterize clinical and radiologic features, treatment strategies, and outcomes in these rare lesions and to investigate various factors that may affect postoperative outcomes.

METHODS

The medical records of patients with CPA hemangioblastomas who underwent surgery from 2003-2016 at the West China Hospital were reviewed retrospectively and statistically analyzed.

RESULTS

Twenty-three patients (14 males and 9 females) presented with CPA hemangioblastomas. Eight patients (34.8%) had von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) syndrome. Gross total resection was achieved in 22 patients (95.6%). The mean follow-up was 45.1 ± 36.2 months (range 3-144 months). After surgery, the symptoms improved in 18 cases (78.3%), remained unchanged in 3 cases (13%), and were aggravated in 2 cases (8.7%). Four patients showed local recurrence during follow-up (17.4%). Patients with cystic hemangioblastomas had a better neurologic improvement (P = 0.041) compared with patients with solid tumors. Furthermore, patients with maximal diameter of tumors >3 cm (P = 0.035) or solid tumors (P = 0.018) showed a higher incidence of postoperative complications. The local recurrence was correlated with VHL disease (P = 0.027).

CONCLUSIONS

Although hemangioblastomas of the CPA are challenging lesions to treat surgically, they can be removed safely when these lesions are appropriately diagnosed and treated. Patients with VHL disease are more likely to have a local recurrence. A regular follow-up is recommended to detect the local and distant recurrence, even if the clinical course is benign and the tumor is totally resected.

Safety and outcomes of preoperative embolization of intracranial hemangioblastomas: A systematic review

INTRODUCTION

While preoperative embolization is often reserved for large and highly vascular tumors in order to minimize blood loss, its safety and efficacy in the treatment of hemangioblastomas (HB) is unclear. We present the largest systematic review focusing on the safety and outcome of preoperative embolization of intracranial HB.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

To identify all cases of preoperative embolization for HB, a literature search was conducted via Medline (OVID and PubMed), Scopus, Embase, and Web of Science. Studies that were in English, included intracranial hemangioblastomas treated with preoperative embolization and provided sufficient disaggregated clinical data for each patient were included. Historical control patients with non-embolized intracranial HB undergoing resection were similarly identified.

RESULTS

A total of 111 patients that underwent preoperative embolization of HB prior to planned resection were identified. Patient age ranged from 12 to 72 years, with a cohort of 63% males and 36% females. Nine studies comprising 392 non-embolized patients were included as controls. Gross total resection was achieved in 83.7% of embolized and 95.6% of non-embolized patients. Intraoperative blood transfusion was required in 15.3% of embolized and 0.51% of non-embolized controls, while rates of post-operative hemorrhage were 8.4% and 1.6%, respectively. Complication rates from embolization were 11.7% and following consequent surgery were 20.7%.

DISCUSSION

Embolization did not increase rates of gross total resection, decrease estimated blood loss, or decrease incidence of complications. Not only does embolization fail to mitigate surgical risks, the embolization procedure itself carries significant risk for complications. Embolization should not be standard of care for intracranial HB.

Surgical resection of medulla oblongata hemangioblastomas: outcome and complications

OBJECT

The purpose of this study was to analyze the surgical outcome and complications of a single-center series of medulla oblongata (MO) hemangioblastomas.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed the medical charts of all medulla oblongata hemangioblastomas operated on at our institution between 1996 and 2015. All patients had a pre- and postoperative MRI and a minimum follow-up of 6 months. Patients were scored according to the Karnofsky Performance Scale (KPS) and McCormick Scale at the moment of admission, discharge and the last follow-up.

RESULTS

Thirty-one surgical procedures were performed on 27 patients (16 females and 11 males). The mean age was 33 years, and 93 % of patients had von Hippel Lindau (VHL) disease. Three patients experienced very complicated postoperative courses, with one case ending in the death of the patient. Two patients required tracheostomy. According to McCormick's classification, 7 (23 %) of the 31 operations resulted in aggravation and 23 (74 %) in no change. Considering the seven patients with aggravation at discharge, four patients (60 %) returned to their preoperative status, one (14 %) improved but remained below his preoperative McCormick grade and two (29 %) did not improve. At last follow-up, KPS was ameliorated in 53 %, stable in 40 % and worsened in 7 % of cases.

CONCLUSION

Surgery of medulla oblongata hemangioblastomas is a challenging procedure characterized by an acceptable morbidity. Transient morbidity is not negligible even if the long-term outcome is in most cases favorable. A compromised neurological condition seems to be the best predictor of unfavorable outcome.

Microsurgical anatomy of safe entry zones to the brainstem

OBJECT

The aim of this study was to enhance the planning and use of microsurgical resection techniques for intrinsic brainstem lesions by better defining anatomical safe entry zones.

METHODS

Five cadaveric heads were dissected using 10 surgical approaches per head. Stepwise dissections focused on the actual areas of brainstem surface that were exposed through each approach and an analysis of the structures found, as well as which safe entry zones were accessible via each of the 10 surgical windows.

RESULTS

Thirteen safe entry zones have been reported and validated for approaching lesions in the brainstem, including the anterior mesencephalic zone, lateral mesencephalic sulcus, intercollicular region, peritrigeminal zone, supratrigeminal zone, lateral pontine zone, supracollicularzone, infracollicularzone, median sulcus of the fourth ventricle, anterolateral and posterior median sulci of the medulla, olivary zone, and lateral medullary zone. A discussion of the approaches, anatomy, and limitations of these entry zones is included.

CONCLUSIONS

A detailed understanding of the anatomy, area of exposure, and safe entry zones for each major approach allows for improved surgical planning and dissemination of the techniques required to successfully resect intrinsic brainstem lesions.

Craniotomy for cerebellar hemangioblastoma excision in a patient with von Hippel-Lindau disease complicated by uncontrolled hypertension due to pheochromocytoma

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This report describes a patient with VHL syndrome and uncontrolled hypertension due to pheochromocytoma who developed obstructive hydrocephalus and underwent craniotomy for the excision of a cerebellar hemangioblastoma combined with a laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

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A rare case of cerebellar hemangioblastoma excision in a patient with von Hippel–Lindau disease complicated by uncontrolled hypertension due to pheochromocytoma.

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There is hardly any literature on emergency craniotomy in a patient with von Hippel–Lindau disease.

•

There are no clear treatment guidelines for the emergency excision of cerebellar hemangioblastomas in patients with intracranial hypertension complicated by abnormal hypertension due to pheochromocytoma whose blood pressure is not sufficiently controlled before surgery.

Introduction

This report describes a patient with Von Hippel–Lindau (VHL) syndrome and uncontrolled hypertension due to pheochromocytoma who underwent craniotomy for the excision of a cerebellar hemangioblastoma combined with a laparoscopic adrenalectomy.

Case report

A 31-year-old man presented with severe headache. MRI showed areas of abnormal enhancement in the left cerebellum that were determined to be hemangioblastoma with mass effect and obstructive hydrocephalus. His blood pressure rose abruptly and could not be controlled. CT of the abdomen revealed bilateral suprarenal tumors, and the patient was diagnosed as having VHL syndrome.On the third day, he presented with increasing headache, a decreased level of consciousness, and hemiparesis. We were not able to perform an craniotomy because abdominal compression in the prone or sitting position resulted in severe hypertension. We performed ventricular drainage to control his ICP. On the fifth day, we first performed a bilateral laparoscopic adrenalectomy to control ICP and then moved the patient to the prone position before performing a craniotomy to remove the left cerebellar hemangioblastoma.

Discu

ssion & conclusion In patients with pheochromocytoma, the effects of catecholamine oversecretion can cause significant perioperative morbidity and mortality, but these can be prevented by appropriate preoperative medical management. When carrying out an excision of cerebellar hemangioblastomas in patients with intracranial hypertension complicated by abnormal hypertension due to pheochromocytoma whose blood pressure is not sufficiently controlled, tumor resection of the pheochromocytoma prior to cerebellar hemangioblastoma excision in the same surgery may prevent increased ICP and reduce perioperative risk.

Biological and clinical impact of hemangioblastoma-associated peritumoral cysts in von Hippel-Lindau disease

OBJECTIVE

Peritumoral cysts are frequently associated with CNS hemangioblastomas and often underlie neurological morbidity and mortality. To determine their natural history and clinical impact, the authors prospectively analyzed hemangioblastoma-associated peritumoral cysts in patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease.

METHODS

Patients with VHL disease who had 2 or more years of follow-up and who were enrolled in a prospective study at the National Institutes of Health were included. Serial prospectively acquired laboratory, genetic, imaging, and clinical data were analyzed.

RESULTS

One hundred thirty-two patients (of 225 in the VHL study with at least 2 years of follow-up) had peritumoral cysts that were followed for more than 2 years (total of 292 CNS peritumoral cysts). The mean age at study entrance was 37.4 ± 13.1 years ([mean ± SD], median 37.9, range 12.3-65.1 years). The mean follow-up was 7.0 ± 1.7 years (median 7.3, range 2.1-9.0 years). Over the study period, 121 of the 292 peritumoral cysts (41.4%) became symptomatic. Development of new cysts was associated with a larger number cysts at study enrollment (p = 0.002) and younger age (p < 0.0001). Cyst growth rate was associated with anatomical location (cerebellum cysts grew faster than spine and brainstem cysts; p = 0.0002 and p = 0.0008), younger age (< 35 years of age; p = 0.0006), and development of new neurological symptoms (p < 0.0001). Cyst size at symptom production depended on anatomical location (p < 0.0001; largest to smallest were found, successively, in the cerebellum, spinal cord, and brainstem). The most common location for peritumoral cysts was the cerebellum (184 cysts [63%]; p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Peritumoral cysts frequently underlie symptom formation that requires surgical intervention in patients with VHL disease. Development of new cysts was associated with a larger number of cysts at study enrollment and younger age. Total peritumoral cyst burden was associated with germline partial deletion of the VHL gene.

Neurosurgical Management of Brainstem Hemangioblastomas: A Single-Institution Experience with 116 Patients

OBJECTIVE

Brainstem hemangioblastomas (HBs) are considered one of the most challenging lesions in surgical procedures. We present our institutional experience with 116 patients over a period of 20 years in the treatment of HBs.

METHODS

We evaluated the results of microsurgical treatment and highlighted the management strategies. There were 60 male and 56 female patients including 13 cases with clinical evidence of von Hippel-Lindau disease. Tumors were solid in 99 cases and cystic in 17 cases. Tumors were small (≤2 cm) in 43 cases, large (2-4 cm) in 45 cases, and giant (≥4 cm) in 28 cases.

RESULTS

Radical removal was achieved in 111 patients (95.7%), and incomplete removal was achieved in 5 cases (4.3%). The immediate postoperative mortality and morbidity were 7.8% and 17.2%, respectively. Detailed analyses of outcomes showed that surgical complications were related to some tumor characteristics. Follow-up study was available in 83 patients by Karnofsky performance scale scores. Most patients maintained their preoperative neurologic status. There were 17 patients with surgical disability who demonstrated a clear improvement with rehabilitation treatment. Worsening of neurologic deficits occurred in 2 patients. Ectopic recurrent lesions developed in 2 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Based on our experience, microsurgery is safe and effective, and excellent outcomes can be obtained for cystic or small tumors. We advocate early surgical intervention for sporadic HBs; giant solid HBs remain a challenge, and meticulous microsurgical technique and perioperative management are vital. Long-term monitoring also is recommended.

Surgical management of medulla oblongata hemangioblastomas in one institution: an analysis of 62 cases

OBJECT

Hemangioblastomas of the central nervous system are highly vascularized benign tumors. When the tumors are located in the medulla oblongata, intraoperative bleeding can make the surgical procedure very difficult. Preoperative embolism has been performed in cases of hemangioblastoma in recent decades. However, the complications of the embolization can result in fatal consequences, especially when the lesions are located in the brainstem. In recent years, selectively blocking the suspicious feeding arteries of the tumors during operation in conjunction with intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring has been performed in the Department of Neurosurgery at the West China Hospital. The purpose of this study is to review all cases that underwent this surgical management and to evaluate their outcomes.

METHOD

Between 2003 and 2014, 62 patients (36 female and 26 male, mean age 35.6 years) underwent microsurgery resection of 67 medulla oblongata hemangioblastomas. The suspicious feeding arteries were identified preoperatively by CTA or DSA. During the operation, the suspicious feeding arteries were blocked selectively by motor evoked potential (MEP) and somatosensory evoked potential monitoring (SEP). Based on the retrospectively review of the clinical records and outpatient long-term follow-up visits, their clinical courses were analyzed. Functional outcomes were evaluated according to the classification of McCormick and the Karnofsky Performance Scale.

RESULT

The maximum tumor diameter ranged from 0.8 to 5.1 cm (mean, 2.9 cm). Total tumor resection was achieved in 60 patients. Sixty-one tumors were removed en bloc, and the other six were resected in a piecemeal fashion. The mean follow-up period was 47 months. During the follow-up period, 34 patients remained neurologically stable, 27 patients recovered to a better status and 16 patients developed new transient neurological dysfunction. One patient died. Karnofsky performance scale scores were 100 in 14 patients (22.9%), 90 in 18 patients (29.5%), 80 in 24 patients (39.3%) and 40 to 70 in 5 patients (8.2%). Seventeen cases were associated with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease. In all the cases, tumor recurrence was observed during follow-up in only 2 patients.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that safe and effective surgical management of medulla oblongata hemangioblastomas can be achieved for most patients, even without preoperative embolization. With the assistance of intraoperative MEP and SEP, mistaken cutting of the vessels that feed the brainstem can be avoided. With improved microsurgical techniques, intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring and a better understanding of the vascular pattern of tumors, total and en bloc microsurgical removal can be performed with low mortality and favorable prognosis of neurological function.

Von Hippel-Lindau disease

von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease is an inheritable condition with an incidence of 1 in 36000 live births. Individuals with VHL develop benign and malignant tumors including retinal and central nervous system hemangioblastomas, clear cell renal cell carcinomas (RCC), pheochromocytomas, pancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and endolymphatic sac tumors (ELSTs). VHL is caused by germline loss of function of the VHL gene on one allele at chromosome 3p25-26. A somatic "second hit" event leads to the loss of the other allele and tumor formation. Loss of VHL function in cells leads to increased expression and stabilization of hypoxia inducible factor (HIF). VHL protein/HIF pathway has been implicated in tumorigenesis for hemangioblastomas, RCC and other VHL tumors. Clinical examination, imaging, and genetic testing for VHL mutations confirm VHL disease. Management of VHL disease largely consists of surgical resection of symptomatic tumors (hemangioblastomas), tumors prone to metastasize (RCC larger than 3cm), or tumors causing hormonal symptoms (pheochromocytomas). Despite advances in early diagnosis and management of VHL disease, life expectancy for VHL patients remains low at 40-52 years. Secondary effects from VHL manifestations are mitigated by routine surveillance and early detection. In this chapter, we summarize the current state of knowledge in VHL disease.

Prospective natural history study of central nervous system hemangioblastomas in von Hippel-Lindau disease

OBJECT

The tumors most frequently associated with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease are hemangioblastomas. While they are associated with significant neurological impairment and mortality, their natural history and optimal management have not been fully defined.

METHODS

Patients with VHL were enrolled in a prospective study designed to define the natural history of CNS hemangioblastomas. In the present analysis, serial imaging, laboratory, genetic, and clinical data were evaluated in those with at least 2 years of follow-up data.

RESULTS

At study entrance 225 patients (111 males, 114 females) harbored 1921 CNS hemangioblastomas in the supratentorial compartment (21 tumors [1%]), cerebellum (865 [45%]), brainstem (129 [7%]), spinal cord (689 [36%]), cauda equina (212 [11%]), and nerve roots (5 [0.3%]; follow-up 15,819 hemangioblastoma-years). Increased tumor burden was associated with partial deletions in the VHL gene (p = 0.005) and male sex (p = 0.002). Hemangioblastoma development (median 0.3 new tumors/year) was associated with younger age (p < 0.0001) and more tumors at study entrance (p < 0.0001). While 1278 hemangioblastomas (51%) did not grow, 1227 hemangioblastomas (49%) grew in a saltatory (886 [72%]), linear (76 [6%]), or exponential (264 [22%]) pattern. Faster tumor growth was associated with male sex (p = 0.001), symptomatic tumors (p < 0.0001), and tumors associated with cysts (p < 0.0001). Location-dependent tumor size was the primary predictor of eventual symptom formation (159 symptomatic tumors [6.3%]; area under the curve > 0.9).

CONCLUSIONS

Central nervous system hemangioblastoma burden in VHL is associated with partial germline deletions and male sex. Unpredictable growth of hemangioblastomas compromises assessment of nonsurgical therapies. The judicious treatment of symptom-producing hemangioblastomas, while avoiding unnecessary treatment of asymptomatic tumors that may not progress, can provide clinical stability.

Operative management of brainstem hemangioblastomas

Brainstem hemangioblastomas are technically challenging lesions. The authors retrospectively analyzed their experience in 24 patients with brainstem hemangioblastomas to evaluate the management strategies used over time and the results of microsurgical treatment. All patients were operated on between 2007 and 2012. The patients received postoperative follow-up by neuroradiological and neurological examinations. The maximum diameter of the tumors ranged from 2.0 to 4.5 cm (mean 3.6 cm). Gross total resection was achieved in 24 patients (100%). Two patients (8%) had new neurological deficits or worsening of pre-existing deficits. One patient (4%) died because of brain stem dysfunction after the operation. Radical en bloc surgical resection of brainstem hemangioblastomas in symptomatic patients is a safe and effective primary treatment. Preoperative embolization is not necessary. It is very important and necessary to differentiate and dissect precisely at the interface of the tumor surface and the brainstem with a meticulous microsurgical technique until the tumor is removed en bloc. The preoperative neurological status of the patient predicts the postoperative functional outcome. Asymptomatic patients with hemangioblastoma may be followed clinically with MRI surveillance at regular intervals.

Microneurosurgery in combination with endovascular embolisation in the treatment of solid haemangioblastoma in the dorsal medulla oblongata

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the treatment of solid haemangioblastomas in the dorsal medulla oblongata using microneurosurgery in combination with endovascular embolisation.

METHODS

Clinical data from 11 patients with solid haemangioblastomas in the dorsal medulla oblongata who were treated with endovascular embolisation followed by microneurosurgery were analysed retrospectively. Clinical results were evaluated using the modified Rankin scale. The patients were preoperatively evaluated by neuroimaging methods such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), contrast MRI and digital subtraction angiography (DSA). General anaesthesia was induced, the patients were tracheally intubated, and the abnormal vessels were embolised. Surgery to resect the haemangioblastoma was conducted after the blood-clotting index returned to normal levels (generally one month after the interventional treatment).

RESULTS

Embolisation was accomplished in all 11 patients. DSA analysis revealed that most of the tumour vessels and tumour stains disappeared without any complications. The haemangioblastomas were completely resected. None of the patients received blood transfusion or died during surgery. The neurological deficit was reduced or eliminated in 10 patients, but 1 patient died after experiencing an acute myocardial infarction on the tenth postoperative day. No recurrence occurred during follow-up in patients who underwent total tumour resection. Postoperative grades using the modified Rankin scale were improved in all 10 patients. However, several complications occurred, including communicating hydrocephalus, incision infection, pneumonia and cerebrospinal fluid leakage from the incision. Notably, normal perfusion pressure breakthrough (NPPB) did not develop during or after endovascular embolisation or surgery.

CONCLUSION

Preoperative endovascular embolisation is a safe and effective adjunct treatment. Employing this treatment, solid haemangioblastomas in the dorsal medulla oblongata can be safely and completely resected.

Management of von Hippel-Lindau disease-associated CNS lesions

Patients with von Hippel-Lindau disease (VHL) often harbor significant disease burden within the CNS, specifically craniospinal-axis hemangioblastomas and endolymphatic sac tumors (ELSTs). The majority (60-80%) of patients with VHL harbor hemangioblastomas, and 10-15% will develop ELSTs. Advances in the understanding of the natural history and outcomes associated with the surgical management of VHL-associated tumors have led to improved management of patients with VHL. Optimizing indications for surgical intervention and refining of surgical techniques for these lesions can reduce patient morbidity associated with the management of this syndrome. In this article, we review the various aspects of perioperative management of patients with VHL, surgical indications and general operative principles for the management of hemangioblastomas and ELSTs, and outcomes associated with the surgical treatment of these tumors.