Welcome to the Choroid Plexus Tumor Treatment Clinic at Emirates Hospitals Group, where we specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of choroid plexus tumors. These rare, typically benign tumors form in the choroid plexus, a structure in the brain responsible for producing cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Although choroid plexus tumors are often benign, they can cause significant health issues, such as increased intracranial pressure, hydrocephalus (fluid buildup in the brain), and neurological deficits, depending on their size and location.
Our team of highly skilled neurosurgeons and specialists is committed to providing the most advanced, personalized care for patients with choroid plexus tumors. Using cutting-edge technology and minimally invasive techniques, we aim to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
What is a Choroid Plexus Tumor?
A choroid plexus tumor is a rare tumor that develops in the choroid plexus of the brain, which is responsible for producing cerebrospinal fluid. The tumor can be either benign or malignant, although most are non-cancerous (benign). Choroid plexus tumors can occur in both children and adults, but they are more common in pediatric patients.
These tumors can lead to several complications due to their location, as they can block the flow of CSF and cause hydrocephalus. Symptoms often vary depending on the tumor’s size, location, and whether it interferes with CSF production or circulation.
Choroid Plexus Tumor Treatment in Dubai
At Emirates Hospitals Group, we offer a variety of treatment options tailored to the specific needs of each patient. Our goal is to remove or shrink the tumor, alleviate symptoms, and improve the patient’s quality of life. Treatment options may include:
- Surgical Removal: Surgery is the most common treatment for choroid plexus tumors, especially when the tumor is causing symptoms such as hydrocephalus or neurological problems. The aim is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while minimizing the risk of damage to nearby brain structures. Our skilled neurosurgeons perform both open surgery and minimally invasive procedures based on the tumor’s size and location.
- Minimally Invasive Surgery: For certain choroid plexus tumors, minimally invasive techniques may be used to remove the tumor with smaller incisions. This method reduces recovery time and lowers the risk of complications, such as infections or significant tissue damage.
- Radiation Therapy: If the tumor is malignant or not entirely removable by surgery, radiation therapy may be used to shrink the tumor or prevent it from growing. Stereotactic radiosurgery is a precise, non-invasive method that can target the tumor without affecting healthy surrounding tissue.
- Hydrocephalus Treatment: If a choroid plexus tumor causes hydrocephalus, we may perform a procedure such as a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt to drain excess cerebrospinal fluid and relieve pressure on the brain. This can be done either before or after tumor removal to alleviate symptoms of increased intracranial pressure.
- Chemotherapy: For malignant choroid plexus tumors, chemotherapy may be required in addition to surgery or radiation therapy. This treatment helps to target and kill cancer cells that may have spread beyond the tumor site.
Symptoms of Choroid Plexus Tumors
Choroid plexus tumors can cause a variety of symptoms, depending on their size, location, and whether they interfere with cerebrospinal fluid production or flow. Common symptoms include:
- Headaches: Often a result of increased intracranial pressure due to hydrocephalus.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Frequently occurring in the morning, as a result of pressure on the brain.
- Vision Problems: Blurred or double vision, or loss of peripheral vision due to pressure on the optic nerves.
- Hydrocephalus: Buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain, causing symptoms such as dizziness, difficulty walking, or changes in mental status.
- Seizures: Can occur if the tumor irritates the brain or if pressure on the brain interferes with normal brain function.
- Cognitive or Behavioral Changes: Difficulty concentrating, memory problems, or mood changes.
- Motor Deficits: Weakness or paralysis, particularly if the tumor presses on motor areas of the brain.
Diagnostic Approaches for Choroid Plexus Tumors
Accurate diagnosis is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment. We use advanced imaging and diagnostic tests to evaluate the tumor and its effects:
- MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): The most common and detailed imaging method to visualize the tumor and assess the impact on surrounding brain structures and cerebrospinal fluid flow.
- CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A CT scan may be used for initial evaluation or in emergency situations to check for signs of hydrocephalus.
- Biopsy: If the tumor is difficult to differentiate from other growths, a biopsy may be performed to determine whether the tumor is benign or malignant.
- Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis: If hydrocephalus is present, analysis of the CSF can help determine whether the tumor is blocking normal fluid circulation.
Recovery After Choroid Plexus Tumor Surgery in Dubai
Recovery from choroid plexus tumor treatment varies depending on the size, location, and treatment approach. Our team provides comprehensive care to ensure a smooth recovery:
- Hospital Stay: Patients typically stay in the hospital for 3 to 7 days after surgery, depending on the complexity of the procedure and recovery progress.
- Pain Management: Pain relief will be provided, and medications may be prescribed to control discomfort and reduce swelling.
- Post-Surgery Monitoring: Patients will be closely monitored for any signs of complications, such as infection or neurological changes.
- Hydrocephalus Management: If a shunt or other drainage procedure is performed to treat hydrocephalus, ongoing monitoring will ensure that the fluid is draining properly and that no obstructions are present.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits and imaging tests (such as MRIs) will be scheduled to ensure the tumor does not recur and to monitor for any complications related to surgery or CSF flow.
- Rehabilitation: Some patients may require physical or cognitive rehabilitation if the tumor or treatment has caused motor or cognitive impairments.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Depending on the patient’s symptoms and recovery, lifestyle changes may be recommended to support overall well-being and long-term health.
