Fourth Ventricle Central Neurocytoma: Case Report

OBJECTIVE AND IMPORTANCE: Central neurocytomas (CNs) are typically located in the lateral ventricle. Primary origins in the fourth ventricle are very rare. We discuss the clinical symptoms, imaging findings, and microscopic features of these rare tumors. CLINICAL PRESENTATION: We report a case of a fourth ventricle CN in a 35-year-old male patient with the initial symptoms of progressive headaches and blurred vision for more than 2 months. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain revealed a slightly enhanced tumor in the fourth ventricle, with obstructive hydrocephalus. INTERVENTION: Total surgical removal of the tumor was performed. The tumor was initially diagnosed as an oligodendroglioma. The final definitive diagnosis as a CN was made after special immunohistochemical studies. CONCLUSION: CNs located in the fourth ventricle are extremely rare. Immunohistochemical stains and transmission electron microscopy can provide useful diagnostic information. Total tumor excision is associated with favorable prognoses. Postoperative radiotherapy may be considered for cases of subtotal excision, anaplastic histological variants, or recurrent tumors.