Depressive symptomatology and pineal epidermoid cyst: a case report. Issue 4 (27th February 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kontoangelos, Konstantinos; Economou, Marina; Maltezou, Maria; Kandaraki, Anna; Papadimitriou, George N.
• Is Part Of: Acta neuropsychiatrica. Volume 25:Issue 4(2013:Aug.)
• Page Start: 240
• Page End: 242
• Publication Date: 2013-02-27
• Subjects: brain cyst, -- depression, -- hydrocephalus, -- pineal gland; Neuropsychiatry -- Periodicals; 616.89
• DOI: 10.1017/neu.2013.4
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0924-2708

Abstract

Abstract : Introduction: Intracranial epidermoid cysts are congenital cysts. They comprise 0.2–1.8% of primary intracranial tumours and are four to nine times as common as dermoid cysts. Case report: We here in present the case of a 32-year-old man who reported sudden onset of symptoms of a depressive symptomatology and particularly severe headache, accompanied by fatigue, depressed mood most of the day, marked diminished interest or pleasure in all or almost all activities, insomnia and diminished ability to think or concentrate. Brain magnetic resolution imaging examination revealed a pineal epidermoid cystic lesion, visualised in the posterior part of the third ventricle, with a maximum diameter of ∼2.8 cm and obstructing the aqueduct of Sylvius, causing obstructive hydrocephalus. Discussion: Pineal cysts may enlarge over time, because of either increased cyst fluid or intracystic haemorrhage, and become symptomatic. Brain radiological investigations in patients with depressive symptomatology may be substantial.