Clear cell ependymoma is a relatively rare type of brain tumor that arises from ependymal cells lining the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces) in the central nervous system. It is categorized as a subtype of ependymoma, which is a tumor originating from the brain or spinal cord. Clear cell ependymomas are characterized by the presence of clear cytoplasm in tumor cells, which is due to accumulated glycogen or a vacuolar appearance.
These tumors are predominantly found in children and young adults, with a slightly higher incidence in males. Clear cell ependymomas most commonly occur in the spinal cord, particularly in the lumbar region, although they can also occur in the brain, including the cerebrum, cerebellum, or brainstem.
Symptoms associated with clear cell ependymomas vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. They can include headaches, nausea, vomiting, seizures, difficulty walking, weakness, or numbness in extremities. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of imaging techniques such as MRI and histopathological analysis of biopsy samples obtained from the tumor.
Treatment for clear cell ependymoma usually involves surgical resection to remove as much of the tumor as possible. Radiotherapy may be recommended as an adjunct to surgery, particularly in cases where complete resection is not achieved. Chemotherapy may also be used in some cases, particularly when the tumor recurs or spreads to other parts of the central nervous system. Prognosis for clear cell ependymoma largely depends on the tumor location, extent of surgical resection, and response to adjuvant therapies.
