Delayed hydrocephalus after excision of a colloid cyst: a case report

BACKGROUND: In this case report we describe an unusual case of a patient who underwent resection of a colloid cyst and then presented 6 weeks postoperatively with obstructive hydrocephalus. There appear to be no prior reports of such a delayed complication after colloid cyst resection. CASE PRESENTATION: A 50-year-old Caucasian woman underwent resection of a colloid cyst with an uncomplicated perioperative course. Postoperative imaging demonstrated complete resection of the cyst. She was discharged home on postoperative day 4 but presented 6 weeks later with symptoms of obstructive hydrocephalus resulting in poor neurologic outcome and ultimately death. CONCLUSION: Patients presenting with symptoms of hydrocephalus after resection of a colloid cyst should be followed closely, and timely placement of an external ventricular drain may be critical.