Primary central nervous system lymphoma of the tectal plate in adult

BACKGROUND: Primary central nervous system lymphoma (PCNSL) originating in the brainstem is uncommon. In particular, PCNSL confined to the tectal plate in adults has never been reported in the past. The case of a 53-year-old man who was diagnosed with PCNSL in the tectal plate is reported. CASE DESCRIPTION: The patient was referred to our hospital with a 1-month history of disorientation and magnetic resonance imaging showed hydrocephalus with an enhancing lesion in the tectum. Preoperative blood tests showed a high serum soluble interleukin-2 receptor level of 624 U/ml. Through a single burr hole, endoscopic third ventriculostomy and biopsy of the lesion were simultaneously performed with a flexible endoscope. The histological examination confirmed diffuse large B-cell lymphoma. The patient underwent chemotherapy and radiotherapy. CONCLUSION: Malignant lymphoma of the tectum may occur in adults. By measuring the soluble interleukin-2 level preoperatively, it was possible to include malignant lymphoma in the differential diagnosis. In addition, the use of a neuroendoscope permits biopsy and hydrocephalus treatment to be performed simultaneously.