Astrocytomas arising in the tectal region of the mesencephalon: report of two cases

Abstract

Astrocytoma arising from the tectum of the mesencephalon is an unusual tumor that is different from other brain stem tumors in clinical features. We describe two patients with tectal low-grade astrocytoma. Each patient underwent CSF diversion and biopsy followed by radiation therapy. A review of the literature on the clinical, radiographic, and pathological findings and the management of tectal tumor is presented.