Our Summary

A six-year-old boy who was experiencing seizures, including unusual sensations in the upper abdomen, sudden pauses in activity, and uncontrollable jerking movements, was examined. An MRI scan revealed a cyst-like image outside the normal brain tissue and an increase in thickness in two specific areas of the right frontal lobe of his brain. Doctors decided to remove the frontal lobe lesion using a technique called transoperative motor mapping. The results showed he had a type of benign brain tumor, called a dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor, along with a condition known as focal cortical dysplasia, which causes abnormal development of the brain’s outermost layer. Based on these findings and the analysis of his electroencephalogram (brain wave activity), doctors were able to treat the cortical dysplasia. The patient is now seizure-free and does not need medication.

FAQs

  1. What technique was used to remove the frontal lobe lesion in the six-year-old boy?
  2. What conditions were discovered in the boy’s brain after the MRI scan and transoperative motor mapping?
  3. How were doctors able to treat the detected focal cortical dysplasia in the boy’s brain?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about tumor resection is to follow post-operative care instructions carefully to ensure proper healing and recovery. This may include taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding strenuous activities until cleared by the medical team. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet can help support overall well-being and aid in the healing process. It is important to communicate any new symptoms or concerns to your healthcare provider promptly.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended for tumor resection include those with:

  • Brain tumors, both benign and malignant
  • Tumors located in critical areas of the brain that are causing symptoms such as seizures, headaches, or neurological deficits
  • Tumors that are growing rapidly or are causing increased pressure within the skull
  • Tumors that are causing compression of surrounding structures or blocking the flow of cerebrospinal fluid
  • Tumors that are causing neurological deficits that are not improving with other treatments
  • Tumors that are causing significant pain or discomfort

In the case of the six-year-old boy described above, his symptoms of seizures, abnormal brain tissue growth, and abnormal brain development led doctors to recommend tumor resection to improve his quality of life and prevent further complications.

Timeline

  • Before tumor resection:
  1. Patient experiences seizures and unusual sensations in upper abdomen, sudden pauses in activity, and uncontrollable jerking movements.
  2. MRI scan reveals cyst-like image outside normal brain tissue and increase in thickness in two specific areas of right frontal lobe.
  3. Doctors decide to remove frontal lobe lesion using transoperative motor mapping technique.
  4. Results show patient has benign brain tumor and focal cortical dysplasia.
  5. Analysis of electroencephalogram helps doctors treat cortical dysplasia.
  • After tumor resection:
  1. Patient is seizure-free and does not need medication.
  2. Patient undergoes regular follow-up appointments to monitor for any recurrence or complications.
  3. Patient may undergo rehabilitation therapy to improve any neurological deficits caused by the tumor or surgery.
  4. Patient and family receive counseling and support to cope with the emotional and psychological impacts of the diagnosis and treatment.
  5. Patient may need ongoing monitoring and care to ensure long-term health and well-being.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is a tumor resection and how does it work?
  2. What are the risks and potential complications associated with tumor resection surgery?
  3. What is the expected recovery time after tumor resection surgery?
  4. Will I need any additional treatments or follow-up care after the surgery?
  5. What are the chances of the tumor recurring after resection?
  6. Are there any lifestyle changes or precautions I should take after the surgery?
  7. How will the tumor resection surgery affect my overall brain function and quality of life?
  8. Are there any support groups or resources available for patients who have undergone tumor resection surgery?
  9. What is the long-term prognosis for patients who have undergone tumor resection surgery for a dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumor?
  10. Are there any alternative treatment options or clinical trials available for patients with this type of brain tumor?

Reference

Authors: Martínez-Luna AA, Aguado-Carrillo G, Velasco-Campos F, Velasco-Monroy AL, Gómez-Apo E. Journal: Cir Cir. 2020;88(Suppl 1):9-13. doi: 10.24875/CIRU.20001234. PMID: 32963384