Colloid cyst: a case report and literature review of a rare but deadly condition

Abstract

Background: Colloid cysts are congenital benign tumors accounting for 0.2-2% of all intracranial neoplasms but representing 15-20% of all intraventricular masses. Emergency Physicians are more likely than any other group to encounter patients with a colloid cyst, a rare but life-threatening condition. The most common presenting complaint is severe episodic attacks of headache in a frontal location with associated nausea and vomiting.

Objectives: To describe a rare but potentially life-threatening cause of headache so that clinicians will rapidly recognize the significance of the condition and institute timely appropriate therapy.

Case report: We describe the case of a 40-year-old man with a severe headache accompanied by confusion who was diagnosed with obstructive hydrocephalus associated with a colloid cyst in the third ventricle.

Conclusion: Recognition of this rare but important diagnosis should prompt the Emergency Physician to obtain timely treatment so that rapid neurologic deterioration, herniation, and death can be prevented. A review of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and current management is discussed.