STEREOTAXIC MANAGEMENT OF PINEAL CYSTS

Benign large pineal cysts are rare lesions and sometimes difficult to distinguish from neoplastic cysts of the pineal region. Seven patients with cysts of the pineal region (1,5-2cm diameter), treated stereotac tically were identified by retrospective chart review. In all patients the cyst wall and contents were subjected to histopathological examin ation. In 2 patients stereotactic operation showed that secondary (neo plastic) cysts were ruled out. In 5 patients with symptomatic pineal c ysts the stereotactic evacuation led to clinical recovery or marked im provement (mean follow-up 20 months). The previous literature is revie wed, aetiology, diagnostic work up and therapy discussed. We prefer th e stereotactic management of cysts of the pineal region because it all ows histological distinction of benign cysts from secondary cysts and is a safe, minimal invasive procedure.