Hemangiopericytoma
Definition: A hemangiopericytoma is a tumor that arises from cells around the blood vessels in various parts of the body, including the brain. The World Health Organization classifies hemangiopericytomas that occur in the brain as grade II or III (anaplastic) depending on the aggressiveness of the tumor. Hemagiopericytomas tend to recur and can spread to the bones, lungs, or liver.
Symptoms: The symptoms of a hemangiopericytoma depend on their location in the brain.
Evaluation: Hemangiopericytomas are generally evaluated using MRI scans. In certain cases where the tumor may involve the bone of the skull over the tumor, a CT scan may be helpful.
Treatment Options:
- Surgery: Surgical removal of as much of the tumor as possible without causing neurological damage is the treatment of choice for a hemangiopericytoma.
- Radiation: Radiation therapy may be recommended to delay recurrence of the tumor.
Follow-up: Long-term follow-up with regular brain scans and neurological exams is recommended to watch for tumor recurrence or spread.