Subependymoma
Subependymoma
Subependymoma (pronunciation: sub-ep-en-dy-mo-ma) is a rare, benign tumor that originates from the ependymal cells lining the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord.
Etymology
The term "subependymoma" is derived from the Latin "sub" meaning under, and "ependyma", referring to the ependymal cells from which the tumor originates.
Description
Subependymomas are slow-growing tumors that are typically found in adults. They are most commonly located in the fourth ventricle of the brain, but can also occur in the spinal cord. Despite their benign nature, they can cause symptoms such as headache, nausea, and neurological deficits due to their location and the pressure they exert on surrounding structures.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of subependymoma is typically made through magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, which can reveal the presence and location of the tumor. However, definitive diagnosis requires a biopsy, where a sample of the tumor is examined under a microscope.
Treatment
Treatment for subependymoma usually involves surgical removal of the tumor. In some cases, radiation therapy may be used if the tumor cannot be completely removed, or if it recurs after surgery.
Prognosis
The prognosis for individuals with subependymoma is generally good, as these tumors are benign and slow-growing. However, the prognosis can vary depending on the location of the tumor and the extent to which it can be surgically removed.
Related Terms
- Ependymoma: A type of brain tumor that arises from the ependymal cells lining the ventricles of the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord.
- Glioma: A type of tumor that starts in the glial cells of the brain or the spine.
- Neuro-oncology: The study of brain and spinal cord neoplasms, many of which are (at least eventually) very dangerous and life-threatening.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Subependymoma
- Wikipedia's article - Subependymoma
This WikiMD dictionary article is a stub. You can help make it a full article.
Languages: - East Asian
中文,
日本,
한국어,
South Asian
हिन्दी,
Urdu,
বাংলা,
తెలుగు,
தமிழ்,
ಕನ್ನಡ,
Southeast Asian
Indonesian,
Vietnamese,
Thai,
မြန်မာဘာသာ,
European
español,
Deutsch,
français,
русский,
português do Brasil,
Italian,
polski