Pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma

Case contributed by Bahman Rasuli
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

One-month history of seizures and headaches.

Patient Data

Age: 30 years
Gender: Female
mri

Large heterogeneous solid cystic mass in the region of the left parafalcine frontal lobe.

The lesion has a predominantly low T1 signal and high T2 signal with areas of water restriction on DWI images.

Marked mass effect on adjacent brain parenchyma, left lateral ventricle frontal horn, and corpus callosum associated with midline shift measuring about 12 mm also is seen.

There is a large amount of vasogenic edema involving the right frontal lobe.

Photo

IHC study was compatible with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma grade III which was previously known as anaplastic pleomorphic astrocytomas.

Case Discussion

The patient went on to have a resection and histopathological examination was compatible with pleomorphic xanthoastrocytoma (PXA) grade 3 (previously known as anaplastic pleomorphic astrocytoma). 

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.