Management of hemangiopericytomas in the central nervous system

Objective To elucidate the clinical features and treatment of Hemangioperic ytomas (HPCs) in the central nervous system. Methods Twenty-six HPC operations performed at Huashan Hospital from Januar y 1993 to June 1999 were analyzed retrospectively, and a review of relevant literatures was done. Results Among the 26 cases, total tumor removal was achieved in 24 cases, a nd subtotal removal in 2 cases. Postoperatively, neurological symptoms were improved or unchanged in 21 cases, worsened in 4 cases, and pneumonia caus ed death in 1 case. Eighteen patients received postoperative radiotherapy. Eighteen patients were followed up from 1 month to 58 months (average, 22 m onths). During the follow-up period, 2 patients presented one or more dista nt metastasis, and one patient died of recurrence. Conclusion Surgical management is the best choice for treatment of patients with HPCs. Postoperative radiotherapy can postpone the risk of tumor recur rence.