The cause of a cyst of the 3rd ventricle of the brain. Colloid cysts of the third ventricle

Human brain- a complex and amazing structure, all the secrets of which scientists have not yet unraveled. One of the most interesting mechanisms of functioning nervous system What remains is the process of formation and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which is carried out using the 3rd ventricle of the brain.

3rd ventricle of the brain: anatomy and physiology

The third ventricle of the brain is a thin slit-like cavity, bounded by the visual tuberosities of the thalamus and located in diencephalon. The inside of the third ventricle of the brain is lined soft shell, branched choroid plexus and filled with cerebrospinal fluid.

The physiological significance of the 3rd ventricle is very great. It ensures unimpeded flow of cerebrospinal fluid from the lateral ventricles into the subarachnoid space for washing the brain and spinal cord. Simply put, it ensures the circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, which is necessary for:

  • regulation of intracranial pressure;
  • mechanical protection of the brain from damage and injury;
  • transport of substances from the brain to spinal cord and vice versa;
  • protecting the brain from infection.

3rd ventricle of the brain: normal in children and adults

A normally functioning liquor system is an uninterrupted and harmonious process. But if even a small “breakdown” occurs in the processes of formation and circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, this will certainly affect the condition of the child or adult.

The 3rd ventricle of the brain is especially important in this regard, the norm of which is indicated below:

  1. Newborns -3-5 mm.
  2. Children 1-3 months -3-5 mm.
  3. Children 3 months - 6 years -3-6 mm.
  4. Adults -4-6 mm.

Common diseases of the third ventricle of the brain

Most often, the problem of impaired outflow of cerebrospinal fluid occurs in children - newborns and babies up to one year old. One of the most common diseases at this age is ICH () and its complication – hydrocephalus.

During pregnancy future mom passes mandatory ultrasound fetus, which allows us to identify birth defects development of the child’s central nervous system is still early stages. If during the examination the doctor notes that the 3rd ventricle of the brain is dilated, additional diagnostic tests and careful medical supervision.

If the cavity of the 3rd ventricle in the fetus becomes more and more dilated, in the future such a baby may require bypass surgery to restore the normal outflow of cerebrospinal fluid.

Also, all babies born at the age of two months (earlier if indicated) undergo mandatory medical checkup a neurologist who may suspect dilatation of the 3rd ventricle and the presence of ICH. Such children are sent to special examination brain structures – (neurosonogathia).

What is NSG?

Neurosonography is a special type ultrasound examination brain It can be performed on infants because they have a small physiological opening in the skull - the fontanel.

Using a special sensor, the doctor receives an image of all internal structures brain, determines their size and location. If the 3rd ventricle is dilated in the NSG, more detailed tests are performed - computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to obtain a more accurate picture of the disease and confirm the diagnosis.

Which doctors should you contact when diagnosing ICH?

If the 3rd ventricle of the baby’s brain is slightly dilated and the mother has no serious complaints, regular monitoring by a local pediatrician is sufficient. Consultation with a neurologist and neurosurgeon is necessary if there is significant dilatation of the ventricles on ultrasound or symptoms of ICH:

  • the child began to suck the breast worse;
  • the fontanel is tense, protruding above the surface of the skull;
  • the saphenous veins of the scalp are dilated;
  • Graefe's symptom - a section of white sclera between the iris and eyelid when looking down;
  • loud, sharp cry;
  • vomit;
  • divergence of the sutures of the skull;
  • rapid increase in head size.

Doctors determine further treatment tactics for a baby with: conservative means prescribing vascular drugs, massage, physiotherapy; surgical – performing an operation. After therapy, children quickly recover, the activity of the nervous system is restored.

Colloid cyst of the 3rd ventricle is a disease common among adults 20-40 years old. It is characterized by the appearance of a benign round formation in the cavity of the 3rd ventricle, not prone to rapid growth and metastasis.

The colloid cyst itself does not pose any danger to human health. Problems begin if it reaches a large size and interferes with the outflow of cerebrospinal fluid. In this case, the patient experiences neurological symptoms associated with increased intracranial pressure:

  • sharp headache;
  • vomit;
  • visual impairment;
  • convulsions.

Diagnosis, treatment colloid cyst The third ventricle is jointly dealt with by a neurologist and a neurosurgeon. If the size of the formation is pronounced, determined on CT or, surgical treatment of the cyst is prescribed. After the operation, the normal flow of cerebrospinal fluid is quickly restored, and all symptoms of the disease disappear.

Summing up

Thus, the third ventricle is important element liquor system, diseases of which can lead to serious consequences. Attentive attitude to health and timely appeal Doctors will help you quickly and permanently cope with the disease.

Most brain cysts are asymptomatic and rarely cause headaches. If symptoms of a brain cyst appear, the most common complaint will be headache. Symptoms of a brain cyst most often occur in patients mature age in the form of headache, signs of increased intracranial pressure, acute occlusive hydrocephalus due to the lateral ventricles of the brain.

Other symptoms of a brain cyst include changes mental status patient, nausea and vomiting, epileptic seizure, dizziness, sudden weakness in the legs. The latter manifestation (weakness in the legs) can rarely be associated with other brain tumors and may be a consequence of stretching of the corticospinal tract (fibers going to the legs) as hydrocephalus increases.

In the most severe cases of brain cysts, sudden death occurs. This can occur due to mechanical pressure from the brain cyst on the regulatory center heart rate located in the hypothalamus. An acute block of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) with a herniation (herniation) of the brain into the tentorium of the cerebellum can also cause death in a patient with a brain cyst.

Differential diagnosis of colloid cyst of the brain in the region of the 3rd cerebral ventricle

Differential diagnosis of a colloid cyst of the brain should be carried out with wide range tumors of the 3rd cerebral ventricle. These tumors usually arise outside the 3rd ventricle and are able to protect its lumen from external compression by the brain parenchyma. At the same time, these tumors themselves can cause a block of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Choroid plexus papillomas occur in the first 20 years of life in the lumen of the 3rd ventricle. Also, 10%-30% of tumors found in the cavity of the 3rd ventricle can enter there from the lateral ventricles through the interventricular foramen of Monroe. Neurocytomas are intraventricular benign tumors of the nervous system, consisting of mature ganglion cells and occurring in children and young patients in the lateral and third ventricles of the brain.

Neurocytomas are often misdiagnosed as oligodendroglioma or ependymoma by light microscopy, so the true incidence of neurocytomas is ( benign tumor nervous system, consisting of mature ganglion cells) may be higher than thought. Intraventricular meningiomas occur in 15%-17% of cases of meningiomas in children, and only in 1.6% of cases of a similar location in meningiomas in adults. By origin, meningiomas can be from the lumen of the lateral ventricles (rarely) or grow from the base of the skull into the bottom of the 3rd ventricle (more often).

As was written above, the main damaging effect on the 3rd cerebral ventricle comes from the surrounding brain parenchyma. The majority of these lesions arise from glial tumors, including pilocytic astrocytomas, fibrillary astrocytomas, protoplasmic astrocytomas, subependymal giant cell astrocytomas, glioblastoma multiforme, and ependymomas. Tumor metastases (neoplasms) can involve the 3rd cerebral ventricle through its roof, bottom, side wall or choroid plexus. Metastases from the lungs, colon, kidneys and breasts are most common. In such cases (metastases tumor cells) the prognosis is unfavorable and death occurs as a result of progression of the underlying disease.

Suprasellar germinomas and craniopharyngiomas can invade the bottom of the 3rd cerebral ventricle from below from the side of the skull base (middle cranial fossa). A suprasellar located pituitary macroadenoma can also invade the 3rd cerebral ventricle. Reduced acuity and narrowing of visual fields, endocrine pathology and headache are the most common symptoms in such cases.

Other cysts in the anterior 3rd ventricle include epidermoid cysts, dermoid cysts, and neurocysticercosis. Epidermoid and dermoid cysts are rare in the third ventricle, and neurocysticercosis is common Eastern Europe, countries of Asia, Central and South America, Mexico and Africa. The penetration of neurocysticercosis into the 3rd cerebral ventricle is 15%-25% and leads to the subsequent development of hydrocephalus.

Inflammatory lesions, such as purulent abscess and granulomatous diseases such as tuberculosis and fungal infection, significantly less often affects the 3rd cerebral ventricle. Other lesions, such as sarcoidosis and histiocytosis, can affect the 3rd ventricle through its floor and hypothalamus.

And finally, vascular lesions of the brain, such as cavernous malformations and arteriovenous malformations should be added to differential diagnosis effects on the 3rd cerebral ventricle.

Diagnosis of a colloid cyst of the brain in the region of the 3rd cerebral ventricle

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain is performed if a colloid cyst is suspected.

The contents of a colloid cyst are determined if it appears during an imaging study. The cyst may be discovered incidentally during a CT scan of the brain, or when a patient has symptoms and signs of increased intracranial pressure that lead the physician to suspect acute obstructive hydrocephalus. Computed tomography (CT scan of the brain) typically shows a homogeneous hyperintense mass within the 3rd ventricle at the level of the interventricular foramen from Monro.

Acute occlusive hydrocephalus with periventricular edema can occur due to a block of cerebrospinal fluid along its path to the 3rd cerebral ventricle. On T2-weighted magnetic resonance images (MRI of the brain), the cyst may be hypo- or hyperintensely stained, and fluid-attenuated inversion recovery (FLAIR) shows periventricular edema in the acute stage hydrocephalus, as hyperintensely stained brain parenchyma surrounding the lateral ventricle.

Treatment of colloid cyst of the brain in the 3rd ventricle area

Surgery is indicated after evaluating factors such as the patient's age, symptoms, and the size of the cyst itself. Because of the threat sudden death, surgery is recommended for cysts larger than 1.5 cm in diameter in young patients, even if it is asymptomatic. A symptomatic patient with a brain cyst in the 3rd ventricle should always receive treatment.

Options for surgical treatment of brain cysts in the region of the 3rd cerebral ventricle include both endoscopic removal of the cyst and open surgery with various approaches, such as hemispheric transcortical or interhemispheric transcallosal (through the corpus callosum) approach.

Shkarubo M.A.

Description

Colloidal cysts III ventricles - rare, slow-growing non-tumor benign formations brain. In the vast majority of cases, colloid cysts are located in the anterior parts of the third ventricle.

Clinic

Clinical manifestations of colloid cysts vary from complete absence symptoms (accidental findings during neuroimaging - CT, MRI), to serious life-threatening manifestations. Most often, colloid cysts occur in young people from 20 to 40 years old.

The main typical manifestations of a colloid cyst:

Occlusive attacks

Colloid cysts, located in the anterior sections of the third ventricle, like a valve, periodically close the opening between the lateral ventricles of the brain (foramen of Monroe), thereby disrupting the normal circulation of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) in the ventricles of the brain. This is manifested by severe paroxysmal headaches, often accompanied by nausea and/or vomiting, sudden weakness in the legs, fainting conditions, short-term loss of consciousness without convulsions up to several times a day. In rare cases, when the foramen of Monroe closes to long time, sudden depression of consciousness develops up to coma and death.

Hydrocephalic symptoms

Due to long-term disruption of the normal circulation of cerebrospinal fluid caused by a colloid cyst, expansion of the ventricular system occurs - hydrocephalus. Clinical manifestations of hydrocephalus are constant headaches, memory impairment, dizziness and unsteadiness when walking, and urinary incontinence.

Memory impairment

Colloid cysts, squeezing and/or merging with the vault of the brain (Latin “Fornix” - the structure of the brain responsible for memory), cause memory impairment in 35% of cases. Memory impairments can range from mild, detected only by special neuropsychological tests, to severe, noticeable to the naked eye.

Diagnosis of colloid cysts

If a brain tumor is suspected, a CT or MRI is performed. In 8%, colloid cysts have no obvious clinical manifestations, appearing as an incidental finding during radiation diagnostics.

Treatment

If the colloid cyst is an accidental finding, does not manifest any symptoms, is small in size, and there are no signs of hydrocephalus on MRI, then dynamic monitoring of the patient is possible. However, it is worth remembering that colloid cysts, while not being a tumor disease of the brain, can suddenly increase in size and cause severe symptoms.

Open surgery is the microsurgical removal of a colloid cyst

A small trepanation and removal of the colloid cyst is performed using a microscope and microsurgical instruments.

Endoscopic surgery

This method of removing colloid cysts is a minimally invasive method. surgical treatment, since the operation is performed without craniotomy. The endoscope is inserted through a small hole in the skull, through which the cyst is removed.

Bypass operations

Palliative interventions aimed at resolving cerebral hydrops. A shunt system is implanted into the ventricles of the brain, which diverts cerebrospinal fluid into abdominal cavity. As a rule, bypass operations are performed according to urgent indications. After the patient's condition improves, subsequent removal of the colloid cyst is recommended.

All treatment methods have their advantages and disadvantages. Indications are always determined individually by the neurosurgeon.

Due to the rarity of the disease, it is advisable to concentrate patients in clinics where there is experience in performing such operations.

The Research Institute of Neurosurgery has the largest global practice in the treatment of colloid cysts of the third ventricle. Our many years of experience show that the best surgical method The treatment for colloid cysts is microsurgical removal.



Colloid cysts

Colloid cyst of the 3rd ventricle of the brain is a benign tumor of a round shape. The neoplasm is not oncogenic and does not spread metastases. The danger of a cyst lies in the possible stoppage of cerebrospinal fluid circulation and the development of a hydrocephalic symptom (dropsy of the brain).

A colloid cyst, which forms in the region of the 3rd ventricle of the brain, is often found in adult patients. This is a thin-walled benign tumor of gelatinous contents. Localization - anterior zones of the 3rd ventricle, sections near its roof, or the area of ​​the interventricular foramen of Monroe.

With small tumors, symptoms practically do not appear. If progressive growth is observed, the patient is tortured sudden attacks migraines, tinnitus and disorders visual function without obvious reasons. Treatment in most cases is only surgical - complete removal of the cyst and restoration of the path of movement of cerebrospinal fluid.

What causes the disease?

The reasons why a brain colloid cyst forms are not yet fully understood. Many experts say that a neoplasm begins to develop when it is not intrauterine development(the cyst is congenital). The fetus is affected by a complex of unfavorable factors:

  • Not healthy image life of the expectant mother;
  • bad ecology;
  • severe pregnancy (toxicosis);
  • Rh conflict (especially in the first trimester);
  • intrauterine infection.

The area of ​​embryonic tissue does not develop; its cells begin to secrete a viscous fluid, which is immediately separated by connective tissue. The initial size of the cyst is no more than 3 mm. Rapid growth is possible under the influence of provoking factors. Doctors include frequent stress, lack of sleep, excess weight and alcohol abuse (bad habits).

Features of the clinical picture

Cysts are usually asymptomatic, and main feature the beginning of active growth - acute headache. A colloid cyst of the third ventricle of the human brain usually manifests itself after a person reaches 30-40 years of age in the form of migraine, high blood pressure inside the skull and acute hydrocephalus (typical for an advanced form).

Other signs of a cyst:

  • changes in the functioning of the nervous system (changes and mental condition patient);
  • gagging appears;
  • unexplained seizures of epilepsy;
  • feeling dizzy;
  • leg weakness (due to stretching) nerve fibers, which go to the lower limbs).

In the most severe cases, it may occur death. Sudden death is explained by the increased pressure of the enlarged cyst on the zone regulating heart contractions.


Colloid cyst - more about the symptoms

Specificity of expression clinical picture conditionally divided into several subgroups.

  1. Signs of tract blockage (carried sharp character). Typical manifestations include tinnitus, unbearable acute headache and the possibility of falling into a coma.
  2. Symptoms with a gradual increase in pressure inside the skull - a violation central vision, convulsions, urge to vomit. The pain intensifies if the person lies down and does not stop after taking painkillers. There is depression of consciousness (drowsiness).
  3. Violation of higher brain functions - memory problems, inhibition of mental operations, decreased intelligence.

As the cyst grows, it causes convulsions. They are generalized (shaking the whole body) or partial in nature (twitching of some muscles).

Note! A colloid cyst of the brain is also expressed by occlusive crises - a brief stop in the paths of movement of the cerebrospinal fluid. It is observed with a sudden change in body position. Crises are characterized by burning pain and redness of the facial skin, rapid breathing, fever or chills. It goes away on its own.

Features of diagnostic methods

If you suspect a colloid cyst, you should see a neurologist or neurosurgeon. Diagnosis begins with collecting anamnesis - establishing symptoms and provoking factors of development. It is important to identify previous illnesses (exclude complications).

The next stage is the analysis of complaints and examination of the patient. To establish an accurate diagnosis, they are also used instrumental methods research.

  1. X-ray (the colloid cyst appears as a darkened spot in the images).
  2. CT ( CT scan) – the neoplasm in the image is round and whitish.
  3. MRI allows you to determine the exact location of the cyst and analyze its effect on neighboring brain structures.

You should also visit an ophthalmologist for consultation. The specialist will prescribe additional examination(ophthalmoscopy). The method will allow you to assess the condition of the fundus, identify disc swelling and the nature of retinal damage.

How to get rid of a cyst?

Colloid cyst of the 3rd ventricle of the brain, treatment involves surgery. Surgical intervention carried out taking into account the patient's age, characteristic manifestations and size of the neoplasm.

For reference! If there is a threat of sudden death, surgery is prescribed if the cyst exceeds 1.4-1.6 cm in diameter (if typical symptoms not expressed).

The main goal of the operation is to completely remove the colloid cyst, clear the cerebrospinal fluid ducts, and relieve the symptom of increased pressure inside the skull. Various techniques are used to remove the tumor.

  1. Endoscopic removal involves making a small hole in the bones of the skull using a special medical instrument. As a result, the neurosurgeon examines the affected area and removes the cyst.
  2. Craniotomy (or open surgery) - this is opening the skull and carrying out further manipulations directly on the brain. Allows you to remove the cyst and restore the pathways for the movement of cerebrospinal fluid. Disadvantages: increased risk of injury and cosmetic defects after surgery.

Bypass surgery is prescribed for urgent indications. A special device is inserted into the ventricle, which sucks out the fluid (removes accumulated cerebrospinal fluid). After the patient has returned to normal, it is necessary to remove the colloid cyst.

In neurological departments, patients are observed whose colloid cyst does not exceed the permissible size. For the treatment of these patients, a special tactic has been developed: surgery is not prescribed, the patient undergoes regular examination (as well as MRI and CT). Based on the information received, the size of the cyst and its tendency to grow are assessed. If clinical manifestations are clearly expressed, and the size of the neoplasm is normal - an urgent consultation with a neurosurgeon is indicated.


To summarize: prognosis and rules of prevention

Small size disease cystic tumor It has favorable prognosis. This pathology does not affect general well-being. If the tumor grows and the patient refuses treatment, the prognosis is extremely unfavorable. Hydrocephalus begins to develop, which can cause death (the work of the heart muscle is disrupted, and when the brain is pressed in and important centers are pinched, breathing becomes difficult).

Note! In most cases, after surgery to remove a cyst from the 3rd ventricle of the brain, patients experience complete recovery.

A colloid cyst in the brain may bypass you if you follow simple rules prevention.

  1. After reaching 40 years of age, it is important to visit a therapist, neurologist and cardiologist in a timely manner.
  2. Avoid hypothermia.
  3. Treat infectious diseases promptly and appropriately.
  4. Watch your diet (cholesterol should not exceed the norm).
  5. Monitor your blood and blood pressure.

A cyst of the third ventricle of the brain is not a terrible death sentence, which will certainly bring irreversible consequences. See a qualified doctor, do not self-medicate, and attend regular checkups. Taking your body seriously will help you stay healthy. long years forward.

Removal of colloid cyst of the 3rd ventricle - surgery

Colloid cyst of the third ventricle - tumor formation round in shape, located in the thickness of the third ventricle of the brain. This neoplasm is not malignant, is not capable of spreading metastases, and only affects the growth of the tumor itself. The disease is dangerous because it entails the possibility of blocking the circulation path of the cerebrospinal fluid with further development hydrocephalic syndrome. If the cyst small size, then the symptoms, as a rule, do not appear, which means it is difficult to identify the neoplasm.

If the growth of a colloid cyst is characterized by its progressive nature, then it is also accompanied by severe headaches, tinnitus, nausea, vomiting, lack of sharpness of vision, bad memory. Colloid cysts can be diagnosed using CT and MRI. Treatment of the disease is most often surgical. The doctor usually removes the entire cyst until normal cerebrospinal fluid flow is restored.

The colloid cyst of the third ventricle, located in its anterior-superior part, is most often surrounded by a capsule of dense consistency, which is formed by connective tissue. The contents of the cyst usually consist of a jelly mass that has a green-gray color. This mass is a product of the secretion of cyst cells. The size of the cyst itself will depend on how long the leak has been. pathological process. It happens that the cyst grows throughout the thickness of the third ventricle of the brain.

This type of non-malignant cyst is observed very rarely among patients - approximately 1-2% of total number tumors. Pathology can be detected in any person, regardless of his age, gender and other characteristics.

Causes of formation of colloid cyst of the third ventricle

The true causes of the formation of a colloid cyst of the third ventricle in medicine are still unknown. Some scientists associate education with disruption of the functionality of the nervous system itself during the period of intrauterine development.

As is known, the beginning of the formation of the nervous system in the embryo is preceded by an outgrowth, which is called the rudiment of the nervous system. This growth subsequently dissolves when the future nervous system develops, and at the time of the birth of the child it is completely absent.

Further normal height brain may be impaired due to negative impact external signs even during pregnancy:

  • bad ecology;
  • a set of bad habits;
  • systematic stress;
  • toxicosis;
  • the development of an intrauterine infection or as a result of Rh conflict (usually this is typical for early stages pregnancy).

Interestingly, the area of ​​germinal tissue itself may be present, while its cells begin to produce a jelly-type fluid with a dense shell of connective tissue, which leads to the formation of a colloid cyst of the third ventricle.

On initial stage the size of the neoplasm is several millimeters. If various provoking factors begin to influence the cyst, it rapidly increases in size. About the real reason There is no talk of growth of such a tumor yet - the reasons have not been clarified.

Some scientists are of the opinion that direct influence Cyst formation is influenced by stress, obesity, alcohol abuse, smoking, lack of sleep, etc.

Pathogenesis of colloid cyst of the third ventricle

As you know, the brain is not just a collection nerve cells, but it is also a cavity in which there are voids, called ventricles in medicine. In these ventricles, cerebrospinal fluid circulates.

In neurology, there are 4 ventricles: I, II, III IV. These ventricles are essential “elements” of the central nervous system, as they circulate cerebrospinal fluid. All ventricles are connected to each other by openings.

Where does liquor come from? This type liquid arises as a product of the activity of accumulated thin blood vessels, which are located on the walls of the ventricles of the brain. IN healthy condition The cerebrospinal fluid has a consistency that allows it to flow well between the ventricles. If the colloid cyst increases in size, then the circulation channels are blocked, and it is difficult for fluid to pass from one ventricle to another. Thus, fluid begins to accumulate, which leads to increased intracranial pressure.

If the enlargement of the cyst is observed not towards the canals, then intracranial pressure increases gradually, and symptoms appear for a long time (over the next 10-12 years). In the case of rapid growth of the cyst, symptoms of blockage of the cerebrospinal fluid ducts begin to appear, which is clearly visible in the area of ​​the anatomical openings of the circulation.

The localization of the colloid cyst of the third ventricle, which also increases in size over time, entails compression of the cerebral vault, which leads to disruptions in cognitive abilities, and therefore the ability to remember recently received information. Constant fluctuations in body temperature and sleep disturbance may occur. It happens that a colloid cyst leads to a loss of hunger, which subsequently develops anorexia.

Symptoms of colloid cyst of the third ventricle

This disease usually does not pose a threat to human health. The symptoms of a colloid cyst of the third ventricle will depend on the size of the cyst itself. Those insignificant “tassels” that a person has even at birth do not affect negative influence on health status. They become dangerous as soon as they begin to increase in size.

All symptoms of this disease divided into three groups:

  1. Symptoms acute form blockage of cerebrospinal fluid circulation pathways;
  2. Clinic of slow hydrocephalic syndrome (increased intracranial pressure);
  3. Manifestations of malfunctions in the functioning of higher brain functions (for example, deviations in short-term memory or disorders mental abilities, a deviation in the metabolic process is also possible).

The first group is symptoms of an acute form of blockage of the cerebrospinal fluid ducts: represented by an excessive increase in intracranial pressure. This group is characterized by:

  • severe headache, sometimes even leading to loss of consciousness;
  • noise in ears;
  • convulsions;
  • coma.

For the second group - a slow (or gradual) increase in intracranial pressure, the following manifestations are characteristic:

  • headache;
  • nausea;
  • vomit;
  • convulsions;
  • visual impairment.

It should be noted that the characteristic headache of hydrocephalic syndrome can occur at any time of the day, in any position of the body. At the same time, it is almost impossible to relieve such pain even with the most powerful painkillers. The headache is accompanied by characteristic nausea and vomiting. There is also a manifestation of depressed consciousness.

In cases of increased intracranial pressure, vomiting occurs unexpectedly and is uncontrollable. After vomiting, the patient's condition does not improve, as, for example, after vomiting during food poisoning.

One more characteristic symptom there will be disc swelling optic nerve, which develops as a result of the pressure of the cerebrospinal fluid accumulating in the so-called subarachnoid space, which entails a noticeable impairment of visual function: “floaters” appear before the eyes, flickering flashes of light. On initial stage disease, visual acuity remains almost unchanged, however, if intracranial pressure increases systematically, then optic nerve atrophy develops, which is most often expressed in strong fall vision, sometimes even to the point of complete blindness.

Convulsions happen:

  • generalized nature (accompanied by shaking of the whole body);
  • partial in nature (convulsive twitching can be traced in individual muscles, most often in the arms and legs).

If intracranial pressure increases for a long time, this negatively affects the state of the cerebral cortex, leading to impaired brain function. higher order(partial or complete loss of short-term memory, decreased intelligence).

Very common symptom Colloid cysts of the third ventricle are considered to be occlusive crises, that is, blockage of the cerebrospinal fluid pathways of a short-term nature. The reason for the latter may be a sharp displacement of the cyst itself into the cavity of the brain ventricle. Also this state can be explained by blocking the outflow of cerebrospinal fluid. After a while, normal fluid circulation will be restored, and the symptoms will completely disappear.

As for occlusive crises, their main manifestations will be a severe headache, which is accompanied by an irregular heartbeat, redness skin(especially the face), fever or chills, rapid breathing, irregular pulse, sharp jumps blood pressure. This symptomatology develops against the background of existing physical weakness, expressed in loss muscle tone upper and lower extremities.

Diagnosis of colloid cyst of the third ventricle

If the development of a colloid cyst of the brain is suspected, the patient is advised to undergo an MRI and CT scan of the brain, consultation with a neurologist and ophthalmologist. This is enough to make a correct diagnosis.

On CT images, a colloid cyst of the third ventricle is quite easy to identify: it has a round shape, whitish color and is located, accordingly, in the cavity of the third ventricle of the brain, which on the radiograph looks like black spot. The color of the cyst itself is usually much more intense than the color of nearby brain tissue. In the photographs it appears as a grayish tint.

A consultation with an ophthalmologist is mandatory and is carried out in conjunction with ophthalmoscopy, which makes it possible to most accurately assess the condition of the fundus, the presence of swelling of the optic nerve head, as well as the nature of the condition of the retina itself.

It is also necessary to say something about differential diagnosis. It is performed with pituitary adenoma, chiasmal glioma, germinoma, tumors pineal gland and various formations of metastatic processes of similar localization.

Treatment of colloid cyst of the third ventricle

Usually, for colloid cysts of small size and without pronounced symptoms, no treatment is prescribed. Patients only need to undergo regular examination, MRI, CT to assess the nature of the formation, as well as its size.

If the cyst has become large, as evidenced by the characteristic clinical symptoms, then they turn to the help of a neurosurgeon, who prescribes treatment to stop the progressive nature of the tumor. Most often, a neurosurgeon prescribes surgical intervention, which can be in the form of complete removal cysts, in the form of elimination of liquor ducts and high intracranial pressure syndrome.

Among the most common surgical techniques The following are distinguished:

  • craniotomy is a type of opening of the skull for the purpose of surgical intervention on an open brain; this technique allows you to completely eliminate the cyst and clearly examine the condition of the third ventricle, while restoring the normal functioning of the cerebrospinal fluid pathways; the main disadvantage is excessive trauma during surgery and the acquisition cosmetic defect after her;
  • endoscopic removal- an operation that involves a small hole in the cranium, which is achieved using a special device that allows not only to examine the condition of the third ventricle, but also to remove the tumor formation itself.

Prognosis and prevention of colloid cyst of the third ventricle

The prognosis of a colloid cyst of the third ventricle, with its small size, is usually favorable, but only if there is no growth of the tumor. A small cyst does not manifest itself symptomatically and does not harm human health.

In the case of a growing cyst, the prognosis may be unfavorable if treatment is not started in a timely manner. Due to lack of treatment, hydrocephalus may develop, which can cause death due to disruption of the proper functioning of the cardiovascular and respiratory systems. The latter is explained by the state of depression of the brain into certain anatomical openings of the skull, which leads to pinching of vital centers of the nervous system.

A complication of a colloid cyst of the third ventricle may be the development of dementia and memory impairment. In more severe cases, coma and death are possible (in case of acute blockage of the cerebrospinal fluid tract).

After surgery to remove the cyst and full recovery flow of cerebrospinal fluid, doctors note 100% recovery of patients. However, in some isolated cases, relapse may occur, requiring another operation.

To prevent colloid cyst of the third ventricle during pregnancy, you should avoid consuming any medicines, especially if they were prescribed by someone other than the attending physician. In addition, you should always lead a healthy lifestyle, get enough sleep, and take vitamins.