Extraventricular neurocytoma with atypical features and ganglionic differentiation

J Clin Neurosci. 2010 Jul;17(7):920-2. doi: 10.1016/j.jocn.2009.10.022.

Abstract

Extraventricular neurocytoma (EVN) is an unusual variant of central neurocytoma located outside the ventricular system. Both tumours share a similar histology characterised by monotonous populations of round-to-oval cells with scanty cytoplasm separated by neuropil and branching capillaries. We report an EVN arising from the right frontal lobe near the olfactory tract in a 34-year-old male with worsening chronic epilepsy. Our patient's tumour exhibited many uncommon features including ganglionic differentiation, increased mitotic activity and a high proliferative index. We discuss the important differential diagnoses given the site of the tumour as well as the differentiating features from olfactory neuroblastoma, oligodendroglioma, anaplastic ganglioglioma and supra-tentorial primitive neuroectodermal tumour.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cell Differentiation* / physiology
  • Frontal Lobe / pathology*
  • Ganglia / pathology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Neurocytoma / pathology*
  • Olfactory Pathways / pathology*