Spinal cord ependymoma: a review of the literature and case series of ten patients

J Neurooncol. 2016 Jul;128(3):377-86. doi: 10.1007/s11060-016-2135-8. Epub 2016 May 6.

Abstract

Spinal cord ependymoma (SCE) is a rare tumor that is most commonly low-grade. Complete surgical resection has been established as first-line treatment and can be curative. However, SCEs tend to recur when complete tumor resection is not possible. Evidence supporting the use of adjuvant radiation and chemotherapy is not definitive. We review the most recent literature on SCE covering a comprehensive range of topics spanning the biology, presentation, clinical management, and outcomes. In addition, we present a case series of ten SCE patients with the goal of contributing to existing knowledge of this rare disease.

Keywords: Case series; Ependymoma; Review; Spinal cord; Tumor.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cohort Studies
  • Ependymoma / diagnosis*
  • Ependymoma / genetics
  • Ependymoma / pathology
  • Ependymoma / therapy*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Spinal Cord / diagnostic imaging
  • Spinal Cord / pathology
  • Spinal Cord / surgery
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / genetics
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / pathology
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Young Adult