Rapid Neurological Recovery Following Partial Surgical Resection of Spinal Glioblastoma Multiforme in a Pediatric Patient Presenting With Complete Paraplegia

J Pediatr Hematol Oncol. 2016 Nov;38(8):e286-e290. doi: 10.1097/MPH.0000000000000637.

Abstract

Pediatric spinal cord glioblastoma multiforme is a rare entity with a poor prognosis often presenting with lower extremity weakness or paralysis. Previous literature suggests that aggressive surgical resection may provide overall survival benefit; however, there is limited concurrent analysis demonstrating neurological recovery following surgical resection. We report the case of a 9-year-old boy who presented with complete paraplegia and regained the ability to ambulate independently following subtotal surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy. The case demonstrates the balance between meaningful neurological recovery and overall survival when deciding on the extent of resection in cases of pediatric spinal glioblastoma multiforme.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Chemotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Child
  • Combined Modality Therapy / methods
  • Glioblastoma / complications
  • Glioblastoma / pathology
  • Glioblastoma / surgery*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Paraplegia / etiology*
  • Paraplegia / surgery
  • Radiotherapy, Adjuvant
  • Recovery of Function*
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / complications
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / surgery*
  • Walking