Neurenteric cysts of the posterior fossa: Recognition, management, and embryogenesis

C. P. Harris, M. S. Dias, D. L. Brockmeyer, J. J. Townsend, B. K. Willis, R. I. Apfelbaum

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

89 Scopus citations

Abstract

Neurenteric cysts are endothelium-lined structures most commonly encountered in the lower cervical or upper thoracic spinal cord. The occurrence of neurenteric cysts within the cranial vault is unusual. We present three patients with neurenteric cysts located within the posterior fossa: one near the jugular foramen deforming the 4th ventricle, a second in the cerebellopontine angle, and a third in the prepontine cistern. Several different theories have been advanced to explain the embryogenesis of neurenteric cysts. We review these theories and conclude that cranial neurenteric cysts may arise from a disturbance of early gastrulation, shortly after the onset of primitive streak regression.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)893-897
Number of pages5
JournalNeurosurgery
Volume29
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 1991

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Surgery
  • Clinical Neurology

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