Solitary fibrous tumour of the IV ventricle

Background: Solitary Fibrous Tumour (SFT) is a rare tumour occurring mainly in the pleural cavity, with less than 100 cases reported in the Central Nervous System, where it typically presents as a meningeal-based lesion. We describe the case of a SFT located in the fourth ventricle and briefly review the pertinent literature. Case report: A 61-year-old man presented with a 6-month-history of dizziness, nausea and gait imbalance. Brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a contrast enhancing, space occupying lesion in the fourth ventricle, with no dural attachment. The patient underwent a sub-occipital craniectomy and total excision of the lesion. Histological examination documented a SFT. The patient is recurrent free at the 2-year follow-up. Conclusion: Although uncommon, SFT should always be included in the differential diagnosis of intraventricular tumours. SFTs of the fourth ventricle are usually benign tumours. Surgery remains the treatment of choice. © 2010 The Neurosurgical Foundation.