Colloid-like cyst located in the prepontine region.

BACKGROUND

The term "colloid cysts" refers to nonneoplastic lesions located in the anterior part of the third ventricle. However, cysts morphologically identical to colloid cysts are found, albeit extremely rarely, through the neuraxis.

METHODS

We report a case of a 44-year-old man with a short history of headache and 5 years of bilateral hearing loss. Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans showed an oval lesion located at the anterior surface of the pons. The tumor was excised through a right pterional transsylvian approach. Postoperatively, the hearing deficit remained unchanged. Otherwise, the patient made an excellent recovery. Histopathological examination showed a colloid-like cyst.

CONCLUSIONS

Colloid-like cysts growing in the prepontine region are extremely rare. To date, only two similar cases have been reported in the literature. Patients present with headaches, hearing loss, or blurred vision.