[Surgical Management of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus]

Cerebrospinal fluid shunting, including ventriculo-abdominal/atrial and lumbar-abdominal shunts, is the only treatment available for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). Hybrid valves that combine a programmable pressure valve and an antisiphon device are being widely used for treatment of iNPH, which has significantly minimized surgical complications, such as shunt revision and subdural hematomas associated with overdrainage. Development of novel technologies that can maintain a more physiological intracranial environment after shunting presents a challenge for future research.

[Basic Knowledge and Current Evidence on Cerebrospinal Shunt Devices]

Revision surgeries after cerebrospinal shunt placement are sometimes unavoidable mainly because of the mechanical limitations of current shunt devices despite their technological improvements. This article discusses evidence on existing shunt devices, basic knowledge on their structure and function, and possible future issues.

Development of a Lumbar Extradural Arachnoid Cyst Associated with a Lumbar Catheter of Lumboperitoneal Shunt: A Case Report

A 78-year-old man, who had undergone lumboperitoneal shunt (LPS) placement for idiopathic normal-pressure hydrocephalus eight years prior, presented with intermittent claudication, lower back pain, and radicular pain on the inside of the right thigh. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an extradural arachnoid cyst (EDAC) above the lumbar catheter of the LPS. The EDAC compressed the spinal dural sac and cauda equina toward the anterior side at level L3/4, triggering his clinical manifestations. The LPS was removed and simultaneously converted into a ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VPS), which immediately improved the neurological deficits. Postoperative MRI showed shrinkage of the cyst and restoration of the compressed cauda equina. Spinal EDAC is a rare entity resulting from arachnoid membrane herniation due to a small defect in the dura mater. This is the first report showing that symptomatic EDAC can be accompanied by the lumbar catheter of the LPS and that a mere conversion from LPS to VPS or ventriculoatrial shunt might be sufficient to shrink LPS-related EDAC without invasive lumbar surgeries.

Guidelines for Management of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (Third Edition): Endorsed by the Japanese Society of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus

Among the various disorders that manifest with gait disturbance, cognitive impairment, and urinary incontinence in the elderly population, idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is becoming of great importance. The first edition of these guidelines for management of iNPH was published in 2004, and the second edition in 2012, to provide a series of timely, evidence-based recommendations related to iNPH. Since the last edition, clinical awareness of iNPH has risen dramatically, and clinical and basic research efforts on iNPH have increased significantly. This third edition of the guidelines was made to share these ideas with the international community and to promote international research on iNPH. The revision of the guidelines was undertaken by a multidisciplinary expert working group of the Japanese Society of Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus in conjunction with the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare research project. This revision proposes a new classification for NPH. The category of iNPH is clearly distinguished from NPH with congenital/developmental and acquired etiologies. Additionally, the essential role of disproportionately enlarged subarachnoid-space hydrocephalus (DESH) in the imaging diagnosis and decision for further management of iNPH is discussed in this edition. We created an algorithm for diagnosis and decision for shunt management. Diagnosis by biomarkers that distinguish prognosis has been also initiated. Therefore, diagnosis and treatment of iNPH have entered a new phase. We hope that this third edition of the guidelines will help patients, their families, and healthcare professionals involved in treating iNPH.

Aqueductal Developmental Venous Anomaly Presenting with Mimic Symptoms of Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus in an Elderly Patient: A Case Report

Developmental venous anomalies (DVAs) are generally asymptomatic; however, they can sometimes cause central nervous disorders. Aqueductal stenosis caused by DVAs is so rare that only 14 cases have been reported to date. Moreover, most patients are children or young adults, presenting with headaches or consciousness disturbances, associated with raised intracranial pressure. Here, we report on an 83-year-old man presenting with mimic symptoms of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (cognitive disorder, gait disturbance, and urinary urgency: Hakim’s triad) because of obstructive hydrocephalus caused by a DVA located in the aqueduct. Endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) was performed to relieve his symptoms, and the opening pressure of the lateral ventricle was recorded to be 10 cm-H₂O. Endoscopic examination of the intraventricular system clearly revealed a vein within the aqueduct converging with the adjacent subependymal vessels. These findings were compatible with the characteristics of DVAs. His symptoms improved after the ETV. This case suggested that DVAs within the aqueduct, despite of their congenital nature, could give rise to decompensated obstructive hydrocephalus even in elderly patients, resulting in Hakim’s triad.

Abstract WMP44: Endovascular Approaches for Vertebral Artery Stump Syndrome Including the Novel Method of Angioplasty by Retrograde Approach

Introduction: Vertebral Artery Stump Syndrome (VASS) has previously been reported as a mechanism of embolism to posterior circulation (PC) that is due to flow stagnation caused by VA origin occlusion. We report the efficacy of endovascular treatment (EVT) for VASS including the novel method of approach.

Methods: We retrospectively investigated 1381 consecutive cases of ischemic stroke treated in our institution. Diagnosis of VASS was performed on cases of embolism in PC area alone with VA proximal occlusion accompanied by distal flow stagnation and without other embolic sources. EVT was performed on cases in which infarction recurred in medical treatment resistance or in which BA acute occlusion was present. Approach of EVT was selected depending on state of the case. In addition to conventional methods of parent artery occlusion (PAO) and angioplasty by antegrade approach (AA), we devised and performed a novel method of approach for angioplasty by retrograde approach (RA) via collateral circulation or contralateral VA.

Results: Embolism of the PC area alone was 323 cases, 10 of which (3.1%) were diagnosed as VASS. EVT was performed on 6 cases. No symptomatic complications due to the procedure were observed. In all cases, recurrence of infarction was not observed, but retreatment was required in 1 case. The treatment contents were as follows: 1 case of PAO, 4 cases of angioplasty by AA, and 2 cases of angioplasty by RA (via deep cervical artery; 1, via contralateral VA; 1).

Conclusion: There are several reports of anticoagulant therapy and EVT as a treatment for VASS, but it has not been established. Since EVT can be performed relatively safely, it may be the first choice for treatment. Appropriate approach should be considered according to the condition of the lesion. In occlusion of VA, the orifice of VA is often flattened, in which case AA is difficult. RA to occluded vessels, which is a common procedure in cardiovascular vessels, may be applicable to the neurovascular region.

Evaluation of Soft Tissue Hypertrophy at the Retro-Odontoid Space in Patients with Chiari Malformation Type I on Magnetic Resonance Imaging

INTRODUCTION

Chiari malformation type I (CM-I) is a well-known hindbrain disorder in which the cerebellar tonsils protrude through the foramen magnum. The soft tissues, including the transverse ligament and the tectorial membrane at the retro-odontoid space, can compress the cervicomedullary junction if they become hypertrophic.

METHODS

Twenty-two symptomatic patients with CM-I (aged 5-19 years) were treated between 2007 and 2017 at our institute. The retro-odontoid soft tissue was evaluated using T2-weighted magnetic resonance imaging. Anteroposterior (AP) distances and craniocaudal distances of the soft tissue were measured in patients with CM-I and 48 normal control children. Modified clivoaxial angles were also evaluated as the index of ventral compression of the cervicomedullary junction.

RESULTS

Of the 18 patients treated with foramen magnum decompression, 16 patients improved postoperatively, whereas the condition of 2 remained unchanged. The AP distances in the CM-I group (6.0 mm) were significantly larger than those in the control group (3.5 mm), whereas there were no apparent differences in the craniocaudal distances. Modified clivoaxial angles were obviously smaller in the CM-I group (131.5°) than in the control group (146.9°). Moreover, the AP distances were significantly reduced postoperatively (5.5 mm), although the other parameters did not change significantly.

CONCLUSIONS

The retro-odontoid soft tissue in symptomatic patients with CM-I can be hypertrophic enough to compress the cervicomedullary junction ventrally even if there are no combined osseous anomalies. Foramen magnum decompression works to reduce the hypertrophic changes significantly, suggesting that downward tonsil movement might participate in hypertrophic soft tissue formation at the retro-odontoid space.

Descent of the anterior communicating artery after removal of pituitary macroadenoma using transsphenoidal surgery

Background:

After removal of pituitary macroadenoma, the anterior communicating artery (AComA) descends toward the original position. However, the process and contributing factors of this descent are not elucidated.

Methods:

This retrospective study included 102 patients who underwent transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for macroadenomas with maximum diameters of >2 cm. Sequential T2-weighted magnetic resonance images were used to assess the AComA flow void and its distance from the planum sphenoidale before and after TSS. The AComA position in relation to the adenoma was divided into four groups as follows: anterior, anterosuperior, superior, and posterior. The descent was compared to the presence of intratumoral hemorrhage or adenoma extension into the sphenoid sinus.

Results:

One week after TSS, the AComA descent was more pronounced than when originally in the superior position (6.5 ± 3.7 mm vs 4.4 ± 3.5 mm, P < 0.0001). The postoperative descents of the AComA were well correlated with those of residual adenomas only when in the superior position (P = 0.030). The AComA descent was more significant at 1 week (4.4 ± 3.5 mm) than at 1 week to 3 months (0.7 ± 1.0 mm) in all the groups. Both intratumoral hemorrhage and sphenoid sinus extension of adenoma did not affect the AComA descent in each group.

Conclusion:

AComA descent was most influenced when it was superior to the macroadenoma and progressed mostly within 1 week after TSS, probably initiating during TSS. The position of the AComA in relation to a macroadenoma should be considered preoperatively to avoid vascular injury.

Delayed Occurrence of Diabetes Insipidus After Transsphenoidal Surgery with Radiologic Evaluation of the Pituitary Stalk on Magnetic Resonance Imaging

BACKGROUND

Diabetes insipidus (DI) is a major complication of transsphenoidal surgery (TSS). DI usually occurs within a couple of days after TSS. Delayed occurrence of postoperative DI is rarely observed and its developing mechanisms remain unknown.

METHODS

Six patients were identified as having postoperative delayed DI, which was defined as DI that first occurred 2 or more weeks after TSS. They consisted of 1 male and 5 females, and their mean age was 38.3 years (range, 10-76 years). Five patients were histologically diagnosed with Rathke cleft cyst (RCC), and one had RCC coexisting with prolactin-secreting adenoma. Sequential T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging was evaluated for hyperintensity (HI) in the pituitary stalk and the posterior lobe, indicating the location of antidiuretic hormone.

RESULTS

No patients had any DI before TSS. Delayed DI occurred 2 weeks to 3 months after TSS and persisted for 2 weeks to 5 months. T1-weighted magnetic resonance imaging showed that the HI in the posterior lobe became faint but did not disappear after DI occurrence, and their intensities increased with recovery from DI. In contrast, the HI in the pituitary stalk was found faintly preoperatively and turned clear postoperatively and decreased with recovery from DI. The morphologic patterns were dependent on DI duration.

CONCLUSIONS

In the delayed occurrence of DI, it was suggested that preoperative antidiuretic hormone transport was mildly congested yet not completely blocked when DI manifested postoperatively. Gradual spreading of inflammation to the infundibulum after RCC removal was considered as 1 possible mechanism of this delayed DI development.

Contribution of sellar dura integrity to symptom manifestation in pituitary adenomas with intratumoral hemorrhage

PURPOSE

Although hemorrhage within pituitary adenomas frequently exacerbates the symptoms, there are many grades of severity. Moreover, the contributing factors for symptom severity are still controversial.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 82 patients who underwent transsphenoidal surgery for pituitary adenomas with intratumoral hemorrhage. The grades of preoperative symptoms were classified into group A, asymptomatic or minor symptoms; group B, moderate symptoms sufficient for complain; and group C, severe symptoms disturbing daily life.

RESULTS

The hemorrhage volume within an adenoma was significantly higher in group C (92.6%) than in groups A (48.6%) and B (58.7%). Both headache and diplopia were dominant in group C, occurring in 72.2% and 27.8% of the patients, respectively. In group C, there was no significant difference in frequency between adenoma extensions into the sphenoid sinus (0%) and involvement of the cavernous sinus of Knosp grade 4 (0%), and extensions into the suprasellar region were not common (38.9%). The most distinctive feature was that "no extrasellar extension" was found only in group C (41.2%), and "multidirectional extension" was not detected in this group (0%). Multiple regression analysis revealed that the most powerful determining factors were the high frequencies of intratumoral hemorrhage and lack of extrasellar and multidirectional extensions.

CONCLUSION

Rapid volume expansion of a hematoma and lack of extension or unidirectional extension might lead to significant compression of the sellar and surrounding structures. Of note, the integrity of the sellar dura might contribute to the acute onset of symptom manifestations caused by hemorrhage in pituitary adenomas.

Prediction of postoperative diabetes insipidus using morphological hyperintensity patterns in the pituitary stalk on magnetic resonance imaging after transsphenoidal surgery for sellar tumors

PURPOSE

Diabetes insipidus (DI) remains a complication of transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for sellar and parasellar tumors. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) appears as hyper intensity (HI) in the pituitary stalk and the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland on T1-weighted magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Its disappearance from the posterior lobe occurs with DI, indicating a lack of ADH. The appearance of HI in the pituitary stalk indicates disturbances in ADH transport.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 172 patients undergoing TSS for sellar tumors at our institute from 2006 to 2014. Sequential T1-weighted MR images without enhancement were evaluated for HI in the pituitary stalk and the posterior lobe to assess the localization of ADH before and at intervals after TSS. DI was assessed pre- and postoperatively. HI in the pituitary stalk showed the following morphology: (1) ovoid in the distal end of the pituitary stalk (group A), (2) linear in the distal part of the pituitary stalk (group B), (3) linear in the whole pituitary stalk (group C).

RESULTS

Preoperative DI occurred in 6 patients (3.5 %) with no HI observed in the posterior lobe. Postoperative DI was transient in 82 patients (47.7 %), and permanent in 11 (6.4 %). One week after surgery, HI was absent in the posterior lobe in 74 patients (43.0 %), and present in the pituitary stalk in 99 patients (57.6 %); both were significantly correlated with postoperative DI (p < 0.001). The absence of HI in the posterior lobe (A, 48.9 %; B, 68.3 %; C, 92.3 %), persistence of DI (A, 3.7 days; B, 45.9 days; C, 20.5 months), and duration until HI recovery in the posterior lobe (A, 3.6 months; B, 6.8 months; C, 22.9 months) were greatest in group C, followed by group B, and then group A. Fourteen group A patients did not have postoperative DI despite having HI in the pituitary stalk and the posterior lobe. Four group C patients developed permanent DI with persistence HI in the pituitary stalk.

CONCLUSION

HI in the pituitary stalk and its absence in the posterior lobe indicated postoperative DI, which was transient if HI was detected in the pituitary stalk. DI duration could be predicted by the length of HI in the pituitary stalk, which corresponded to the degree of ADH transport obstruction.

A Segmental Copy Number Loss of the SFMBT1 Gene Is a Genetic Risk for Shunt-Responsive, Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (iNPH): A Case-Control Study

Little is known about genetic risk factors for idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH). We examined whether a copy number loss in intron 2 of the SFMBT1 gene could be a genetic risk for shunt-responsive, definite iNPH. Quantitative and digital PCR analyses revealed that 26.0% of shunt-responsive definite iNPH patients (n = 50) had such a genetic change, as compared with 4.2% of the healthy elderly (n = 191) (OR = 7.94, 95%CI: 2.82–23.79, p = 1.8 x 10⁻⁵) and 6.3% of patients with Parkinson’s disease (n = 32) (OR = 5.18, 95%CI: 1.1–50.8, p = 0.038). The present study demonstrates that a copy number loss within intron 2 of the SFMBT1 gene may be a genetic risk factor for shunt-responsive definite iNPH.

Treatment Result in the Initial Stage of Kanazawa Mobile Embolectomy Team for Acute Ischemic Stroke

Five recent multicenter randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have clearly shown the superiority of mechanical thrombectomy in large vessel occlusion acute ischemic stroke compared to systemic thrombolysis. Although 14 hospitals in Ishikawa prefecture have uninterrupted availability of systemic thrombolysis, mechanical thrombectomy is not available at all of these hospitals. Therefore, we established a Kanazawa mobile embolectomy team (KMET), which could travel to these hospitals and perform the acute reperfusion therapy. In this article, we report early treatment outcomes and validate the effectiveness of a network between affiliated hospitals and KMET. Between January 2014 and December 2015, 48 patients, aged 45–92 years (mean: 73.0 years), underwent acute reperfusion therapy provided by KMET in 10 affiliated hospitals of Kanazawa University Hospital. The pre-treatment NIHSS scores ranged from 5 to 39 (mean: 19.1). ASPECTS+W ranged from 1 to 11 (mean: 7.3). Successful revascularization, defined as thrombolysis in cerebral infarction (TICI) 2b or 3, was achieved in 38/48 cases (80%), and a good outcome, defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score from 0 to 2 at 90 days after the treatment, was achieved in 24/48 cases (50%). There were two cases of intracranial bleeding (4%). Mean time from onset to recanalization was 297 min. These results, which are similar to those of five previous RCTs, suggest that a collaborative network between affiliated hospitals and KMET is effective for acute reperfusion therapy in local areas wherein experienced neuroendovascular specialists are insufficient.

Role of mitogen-activated protein kinase pathways in migration of gingival epithelial cells in response to stimulation by cigarette smoke condensate and infection by Porphyromonas gingivalis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Previous studies have shown that cigarette smoke (CS) and periodontal pathogens could alter wound healing responses of gingival epithelial cells. To elucidate molecular mechanisms leading to these epithelial changes, we studied the signaling pathway involved in the modulation of cell migration by CS condensate (CSC) and the infection by a prominent periodontal pathogen, Porphyromonas gingivalis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Human gingival epithelial cells (Ca9-22) were treated with CSC or vehicle control for 24 h. Activation of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) in cells with or without infection by P. gingivalis was assessed by polymerase chain reaction array and immunoblotting using phospho-specific antibodies. Cell migration was assessed using in vitro wound closure model, and specific pharmacologic inhibitors of MAPK pathways were used to characterize further the extent of involvement of the MAPK pathways.

RESULTS

Polymerase chain reaction array showed that gene expression of several members of the MAPK, particularly p38 and JNK, was upregulated more than twofold in Ca9-22 cells stimulated with 10 μg/mL CSC. Coincubation with P. gingivalis induced a different pattern of gene expression for MAPK pathways, but it did not suppress the MAPK-related genes upregulated by CSC. A significant phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 was observed in cells stimulated with 10 μg/mL CSC (p < 0.05), whereas coincubation with a higher concentration of CSC (250 μg/mL) evoked no such activation. P. gingivalis infection resulted in a tendency to reduce the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38, which had been enhanced by stimulation with 10 μg/mL CSC. Incubation with ERK1/2 and p38 inhibitors significantly reduced the wound closure of CSC-stimulated cells, by approximately 43% and 46%, respectively (p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

CSC exerts effects on the migration of human gingival epithelial cells through the activation of the MAPK ERK1/2 and p38 signaling pathways. P. gingivalis infection attenuates the CSC-induced migration at least partly by suppressing the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38, but other pathways are likely to be involved in this modulatory process.

Pediatric symptomatic Rathke cleft cyst compared with cystic craniopharyngioma

INTRODUCTION

Symptomatic Rathke cleft cysts (RCCs) are rarely detected in neuroradiological screening and are less commonly found in children than in adults. However, when RCCs are observed in children, it is important to carefully distinguish a RCC from a cystic craniopharyngioma (CP) even if surgically treated or conservatively followed up.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of clinical data from 11 patients with symptomatic RCCs whose ages were under 18 years and compared the data with data from 15 age- and sex-matched patients with cystic CP who were treated at our institute.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients with RCCs was 12.2 years (range, 6-18). There were six males and five females. As initial symptoms, nine patients presented with headache, while two each had impaired visual function, diabetes insipidus, and activity loss. The 14 patients with CP suffered from impaired visual function. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) mainly showed hyperintensity on T1-weighted images (WIs) and hypointensity on T2-WI in patients with RCC. However, patients with CP had characteristic hyperintensity on T2-WI. The average maximum diameter of the RCCs was 19.0 mm on average (range, 8-33 mm). The RCCs were thus significantly smaller than CPs (34.9 mm; range, 21-54 mm). The RCCs were usually oval or dumbbell-shaped and regular in appearance, while the larger CPs were lobular and irregular. A preoperative endocrinological evaluation revealed insufficiencies in four axes in five patients with RCC. Postoperative endocrinological status improved in three patients, remained unchanged in three, and worsened in one. The gonadotropin axis was damaged in a majority (nine) of the patients with CP preoperatively. Postoperative evaluation revealed deficits in five axes in 14 patients with CP, which is a significantly different trend than observed in patients with RCC. Eight patients underwent surgical procedures (transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) in four, craniotomy in four). Two of these patients experienced a recurrence of the cysts. One of these patients subsequently underwent two craniotomies followed by radiation and other underwent TSS. Among the three conservatively treated patients, two experienced a transient worsening of their symptoms along with cyst enlargement. However, none of the three conservatively treated patients required an operation.

CONCLUSIONS

When RCCs become symptomatic in children, the most common symptom they lead to is headache. The cysts are commonly small, regular, and oval in shape. Hypointensity of cyst contents on MRI is a characteristic of RCCs, which distinguishes them from CPs. Surgical intervention can be effective and lead to the relief of symptoms without a high rate of complications. However, there seems to be a relatively high recurrence rate following surgery. Thus, if the patient's symptoms remain minor, the surgical treatment option should be used only when prudent, as the patient's symptoms may improve over time.

Simultaneous ventriculoperitoneal shunt removal and endoscopic third ventriculostomy for three patients previously treated for intracranial germ cell tumors more than 20 years ago

BACKGROUND

Obstructive hydrocephalus is the most common complication of intracranial germ cell tumors (IGCTs). Although ventriculoperitoneal shunts (VPSs) were previously used for treating this condition, they have recently been replaced by endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV), as the latter can avoid various complications caused by a VPS and can preserve physiological cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) dynamics. Therefore, if a VPS malfunctioned in patients who had previously been treated for IGCTs, it seems reasonable to consider removing the problematic VPS, followed by ETV, as long as magnetic resonance imaging reveals third ventricle floor ballooning and the cause of obstruction in the ventricular system, which are indicators for ETV.

CASE PRESENTATION AND DISCUSSION

Here, we present the cases of three patients who underwent simultaneous removal of malfunctioning VPSs and ETV, more than 20 years (range 20-27 years) after initial treatment for IGCT and relevant obstructive hydrocephalus. Despite a relatively long shunt dependency, their obstructive hydrocephalus was well-managed by ETV, probably because CSF absorptive capacity remained intact after IGCT ablation by radio-chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Patients with previously treated IGCTs can thus be released from the need for a VPS, regardless of long-term shunt dependency.

Xanthomatous hypophysitis associated with autoimmune disease in an elderly patient: A rare case report

Background:

Xanthomatous hypophysitis (XH) is an extremely rare form of primary hypophysitis characterized by infiltration of the pituitary gland by mixed types of inflammatory cells, including foamy cells, plasma cells, and small mature lymphocytes. XH manifests as varying degrees of hypopituitarism. Although several previous reports have denied a possible contribution of autoimmune mechanism, the exact pathogenesis of XH remains unclear.

Case Description:

We describe the case of a 72-year-old woman with a history of rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome who presented with panhypopituitarism and diabetes insipidus. At the time of her visit, she also experienced relapsed rheumatoid arthritis and Sjögren's syndrome, manifesting as arthralgia. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a multicystic mass in the sellar and suprasellar regions. In the course of steroid replacement therapy for hypocortisolism, the patient's arthralgia diminished, and MRI revealed shrinkage of the mass. XH was diagnosed histologically following a transsphenoidal endoscopic biopsy, and it was the oldest case of XH.

Conclusion:

To the best of our knowledge, this patient is the oldest of reported patients diagnosed with XH. Steroid therapy may be effective to XH temporarily. XH should be considered when diagnosing pituitary cystic lesions in elderly patients with autoimmune disease.

Midline dural filum of the sellar floor: Its relationship to the septum attachment to the sellar floor and the ossification in the sphenoid sinus

OBJECTIVES

It is important to identify and maintain a midline orientation during endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery (ETSS) for sellar lesions to prevent critical injury to the internal carotid artery. Therefore, the preoperative neuroradiological assessment of the bony structures in the sphenoid sinus, including the septum attachment to the sellar floor and its surrounding structures, is essential. It has been reported that the midline filum of the sellar dura can function as a useful intraoperative orientation guide during ETSS. However, the relationship between the midline dural filum and the intrasinus bony structures, such as the sellar floor, the intrasinus septation and the ossification, remains unclear and the mechanisms underlying development of the midline dural filum have also not yet been explored.

METHODS

This retrospective study included 160 patients undergoing ETSS to assess both the midline dural filum and the intrasinus bony structures, using video recording reviews. The intrasinus septum and the ossification in the sphenoid sinus were evaluated on the computed tomography images of the bone window.

RESULTS

A midline dural filum was identified in 66 (41.3%) of 160 patients. Attachment of the septum to the sellar midline was found in 61 (39.4%) of 155 patients, after excluding 5 patients with the conchal type of sphenoid sinus, 55 (90.2%) of 61 patients with a septum on the midline and only 6 (6.4%) of the remaining 94 patients without a septum on the midline had a midline dural filum. The relationship between a midline dural filum and a septum on midline was statistically significant (p<0.001), regardless of the number of intrasphenoidal septa. In terms of the types of sphenoid sinus, the midline dural filum was predominantly detected in patients where ossification extended over the midline filum. In patients with the sellar type of sphenoid sinus, 49 (36.0%) of 136 had a midline dural filum, meanwhile, 16 (84.2%) of 19 patients with the pre-sellar type (p=0.039) and all 5 patients (100%) with the choncal type harbored a midline dural filum (p<0.001).

CONCLUSION

This study clearly verified the importance of the midline dural filum in a large series and evaluated the obvious relationship between the midline dural filum and the bony structures on the sellar floor. Our results strongly suggest that, during developing of the midline dural filum, the sellar dura becomes tethered to the bony elements attached to the sellar surface, such as the septum on the midline and the ossification in both the pre-sellar and the conchal type of sphenoid sinus.

Significant improvement of intractable headache after transsphenoidal surgery in patients with pituitary adenomas; preoperative neuroradiological evaluation and intraoperative intrasellar pressure measurement

OBJECT

Headache is the most common symptom of both primary and metastatic brain tumor, and is generally considered the primary symptom in patients with large pituitary adenomas. However, patients with small pituitary adenomas rarely complain of intractable headache, and neurosurgeons are unsure whether such small adenomas actually contribute to headache. If conventional medical treatments for headache prove ineffective, surgical removal of the adenoma can be considered as an alternative management strategy.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective review of 180 patients who underwent transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for pituitary adenomas at Kanazawa University Hospital between 2006 and 2014. Patients with acute phase intratumoral hemorrhage were excluded. We identified nine patients with intractable headache as the chief complaint associated with small pituitary adenoma (diameters 15.8 ± 2.6 mm, 11-20 mm), non-functioning in eight, and prolactin-secreting in one. The preoperative neuroradiological studies and headache characteristics were assessed retrospectively, and the intrasellar pressure evaluation was performed during TSS in the last seven patients.

RESULTS

All nine patients had complete or substantial resolution of their formerly intractable headache after TSS. Headaches consisted of ocular pain ipsilateral to the adenoma localization within the sella in four cases and bifrontal headache in five. Magnetic resonance imaging of these patients revealed small diaphragmatic foramen, which were so narrow that only the pituitary stalk could pass. Computed tomography scans showed ossification beneath the sellar floor in the sphenoid sinus, presellar type in six cases, and choncal type in three. The adenomas included cysts in seven cases. There was no cavernous sinus invasion. Intrasellar pressure measurements averaged 41.5 ± 8.5 mmHg, range 34-59, significantly higher than in control patients without headache (n = 12), namely 22.2 ± 10.6 mmHg (16-30).

CONCLUSION

In this study, the authors demonstrated the validity of TSS in the treatment of intractable headache associated with pituitary adenoma. The presence of ocular pain, especially ipsilateral to the adenoma, integrity of the diaphragm sella, and ossification in the sphenoid sinus, cyst or hemorrhage and the absence of cavernous sinus invasion were the indications for TSS for patients complaining of intractable headache and having pituitary adenomas.

Massive Hemorrhage from the Posterior Ethmoidal Artery during Transsphenoidal Surgery: Report of 2 Cases

Nasal bleeding is a major complication that can occur during and after transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for intra- and suprasellar tumors. In most cases, the cause of this bleeding can be attributed to a branch of the maxillary artery called the sphenopalatine artery, injury to which can lead to life-threatening situations. Upon exposure of the suprasellar region and planum sphenoidale during surgery, it is also important to avoid damaging the posterior ethmoidal artery (PEA), a branch of the ophthalmic artery. While recent advancement in endoscopic techniques enables the performance of extended TSS, the chances of PEA injury seem to be increasing. In the current report, we present two cases that showed massive PEA bleeding during regular (not extended) TSS. The total blood loss was 2280 ml and 2150 ml, and endoscopic views disturbed by the massive hemorrhages remarkably delayed accurate stanching of the responsive artery. Therefore, anatomical recognition of the PEA is required to avoid fatal hemorrhaging during even regular TSS, especially for the beginners of this surgery.

Cigarette smoke condensate modulates migration of human gingival epithelial cells and their interactions with Porphyromonas gingivalis

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE

Epithelial cells are recognized as the first line of defense against bacterial infection and environmental harmful stimuli such as cigarette smoke (CS). Although previous studies explored the effects of nicotine on host cells, mechanisms by which CS affects cellular functions remain uncertain. The present study investigated the effects of CS condensate (CSC) on in vitro wound closure of gingival epithelial cells and their potential interactions with a major periodontal pathogen, Porphyromonas gingivalis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Human gingival epithelial cells (Ca9-22) were treated with CSC for 24 h. Cell proliferation was determined using a WST-1 assay. Cell migration was assessed using a wound closure model. The expression of integrins was analyzed by confocal scanning laser microscopy and real-time PCR. Intracellular invasion of P. gingivalis was evaluated by confocal scanning laser microscopy and an antibiotic protection assay.

RESULTS

Low concentrations (1-10 μg/mL) of CSC showed no significant effect on cell proliferation. CSC demonstrated dual effects on epithelial wound closure of Ca9-22 cells: high concentrations (i.e. 250 μg/mL) significantly inhibited the wound closure whereas low concentrations (i.e. 10 μg/mL) promoted it (p < 0.01). CSC induced distinct changes in cytoskeleton. When CSC-exposed cells were infected with P. gingivalis for 2 h, a significant inhibition of wound closure was observed concurrent with a decrease in integrin α3 expression near the wound area. A significantly increased P. gingivalis invasion into Ca9-22 was observed when exposed to low concentrations of CSC.

CONCLUSION

Low concentrations of CSC increased invasion of human gingival epithelial cells by P. gingivalis and induced changes in cytoskeleton and integrin expression, thereby modulating the cell migration.

Pure Lymphocytic Infundibuloneurohypophysitis Caused by the Rupture of Rathke's Cleft Cyst: Report of 2 Cases and Review of the Literature

The major symptoms that are caused by Rathke's cleft cysts (RCCs) are visual disturbances, headaches, and endocrine insufficiencies. Among these symptoms, the endocrine insufficiencies are thought to result from the spreading of inflammation that is induced by the cyst contents onto the pituitary gland or the compression of the gland and the pituitary stalk by RCCs. Here, we present 2 rare cases with lymphocytic infundibulohypophysitis with the sudden onset of headaches and subsequent diabetes insipidus (DI). Magnetic resonance imaging revealed remarkable swelling of the pituitary gland with a small mass that was located between the anterior and the posterior lobe of the pituitary gland. Transsphenoidal surgery was performed to remove the mass, and pathological examinations of the cyst wall demonstrated that the epithelial tissue of the RCC and the posterior lobe were affected by massive lymphocytic infiltration. The clinical courses and pathological results of these patients strongly suggested that the rupture of the RCC onto the posterior lobe caused the lymphocytic hypophysitis. Postoperatively, the DI could be controlled with a smaller amount of anti-diuretic hormone replacement compared to that required preoperatively.

Aspergillus Sphenoiditis Associated with an Artificial Bone Graft Used for Transsphenoidal Surgery

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage is a major complication during and after transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) for intra- and suprasellar tumors. To prevent postoperative CSF leakage, various surgical techniques have been used, including sellar floor reconstruction with artificial bone grafts. However, some authors have recently reported infections associated with artificial bone grafts. Most cases are associated with bacterial infection, and fungal infection is extremely rare. We present the case of a 53-year-old woman with sphenoiditis caused by Aspergillus infection that developed 8 years after TSS and following local radiation therapy for a non-functioning pituitary adenoma. An artificial bone graft prepared from polymethylmethacrylate was used for sellar floor reconstruction. The patient presented to our department with a complaint of bloody nasal discharge. Magnetic resonance imaging showed that a fungal lump had formed around the bone graft, which had broken into two pieces and dropped out into the sphenoid sinus, without tumor recurrence. Histological examination of an endoscopic biopsy specimen led to a diagnosis of aspergillosis. Subsequent complete removal of both the bone graft and fungal lump resulted in a good postoperative outcome. Although fungal infection is an extremely rare complication after TSS using artificial bone grafts, it should be diagnosed as early as possible, and removal of both the fungal lump and the bone graft should be performed in a timely manner after clinical and radiological confirmation.

Symptomatic foramen of Magendie arachnoid cyst in an elderly patient

Background:

Arachnoid cysts (ACs) are congenital anomalies of the central nervous system and arise in virtually all locations where the arachnoid membrane exists. Posterior fossa ACs are considered to develop in the posterior aspect of the rhombencephalic roof plate and do not communicate freely with the fourth ventricle or perimedullary subarachnoid space. Although posterior fossa ACs have been reported a number of times, ACs arising from the foramen of Magendie are very rare.

Case Description:

We report here on a 76-year-old female who presented with progressive gait disturbance. Magnetic resonance imaging of the head showed a large AC in the foramen of Magendie that was compressing the inferior vermis and medial aspects of the cerebellar hemisphere without causing hydrocephalus. Neurological examination revealed cerebellar ataxia without Romberg's sign. A nearly total excision of the cyst was safely performed via a median suboccipital approach. The patient's postoperative course was excellent and her neurological recovery was remarkable.

Conclusion:

Most cases of ACs located in the foramen of Magendie are reported in children, and it is extremely rare to observe such ACs in the elderly. In fact, to our knowledge, a symptomatic foramen Magendie AC has never been reported previously in an elderly person. Our results indicate that proper surgical intervention can yield highly positive outcomes in such cases.

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid leakage through fistulas at the clivus repaired with endoscopic endonasal approach

Background:

Causes of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leakage are primarily traumatic or iatrogenic in origin. In contrast, spontaneous CSF leakage is somewhat rare, and detection of the fistula can be challenging. Meningitis associated with CSF leakage can be life threatening. It is therefore critical to surgically repair the fistula once the underlying cause has been accurately identified. Spontaneous CSF leakage located at the clivus is an extremely rare condition.

Case Description:

We present the case of a 38-year-old male with sudden-onset headache and subsequent disturbances of consciousness. The patient was diagnosed with severe meningitis caused by CSF leakage through fistulas at the clivus, which were clearly identified on dynamic imaging using high-resolution computed tomography (CT) with intrathecal injection of contrast medium. After the meningitis was resolved, successful endoscopic repair of the CSF fistula with autologous materials was performed. There has been no recurrence of meningitis for 5 years.

Conclusion:

Spontaneous CSF leakage at the clivus is an extremely rare condition. High-resolution CT cisternogram could accurately detect CSF leakage through the clivus. A transnasal endoscopic approach was a useful and reliable method of repairing the fistula at the clivus.

Adenoid cystic carcinoma in the cavernous sinus diagnosed with the endoscopic endonasal approach

A 42-year-old woman presented with right oculomotor, abducens, and trigeminal palsy. Neuroimaging revealed a small lesion in the right cavernous sinus mimicking meningioma. Because the symptoms gradually worsened, the patient underwent an endoscopic endonasal transsphenoidal surgery for tumor biopsy. Histological examination of the surgical specimen revealed adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC). Before and after the operation, no evidence of other primary lesions could be detected. The patient was treated with stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS). ACC in the cavernous sinus can be difficult to diagnosis before histological confirmation, because it is extremely rare as a primary lesion and resembles a cavernous sinus meningioma on neuroimaging studies. Two years after the first SRS, the tumor recurred along the trigeminal nerve and SRS was performed again. Our study illustrates that in case in which a lesion in the cavernous sinus progresses on neurological and neuroimaging studies, a biopsy should be taken to provide most accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Detection of the development of late-onset idiopathic aqueductal stenosis (LIAS) by chronological magnetic resonance imaging: a case report

Late-onset idiopathic aqueductal stenosis (LIAS) has been recognized as one of the clinical entities of adulthood hydrocephalus for decades, although there have been no radiological reports that show normal ventricular systems before the development of LIAS. We present here an adolescent case of LIAS with a previously normal ventricular system on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A 17-year-old boy had been suffering from chronic headaches and mild intellectual disability (MID) since he became a teenager, and this had prevented him from leading an ordinary school life. MRIs on admission showed triventriculomegaly from the aqueductal stenosis that had not been detected on previous MRIs, at least until the age of 6. An endoscopic third ventriculostomy was successfully performed, which improved both the headache and the MID. The developmental mechanism of LIAS remains unclear, although the membranous ependymal-like tissue observed in the aqueduct suggested the preceding existence of an inflammatory process around this region. To the best of our knowledge, this case was noteworthy because the development of LIAS was clearly demonstrated on MRI for the first time.

Endoscopic removal of subgaleal hematoma in a 7-year-old patient treated with anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents

Background:

Subgaleal hematomas frequently occur in children after head trauma and extend over the cranial sutures. Although conservative treatment suffices in most cases, surgical removal of a subgaleal hematoma is indicated when the patient presents with anemia and headache associated with its progressive enlargement.

Case Description:

We present the case of a 7-year-old boy who was medicated with warfarin and aspirin due to a hypoplastic left ventricle and fell from a rock wherein he hit his head in the frontal region. Although a computed tomography scan of the head revealed no intracranial lesion, an extracranial hematoma was found to extend over the cranial sutures, leading to the diagnosis of subgaleal hematoma. The hematoma continued to grow gradually despite the cessation of warfarin and aspirin therapy immediately after the head trauma. Since the patient's headache and anemia were progressing as the hematoma enlarged, removal of the hematoma was performed 3 days after admission. Endoscopic hematoma removal was planned to enable accurate coagulation of the sites of bleeding and removal of the maximal amount of hematoma through minimal incision. The hematoma was completely removed, and the patient's postoperative course was excellent with alleviation of both the anemia and the headache. No sign of hematoma recurrence could be detected during 2 years follow-up.

Conclusion:

An angled endoscope can allow visualization of the deep subgaleal space, and this technique enabled direct visualization of the bleeding sites and accurate coagulation to prevent recurrence of hematoma. Endoscopic techniques, such as minimally invasive techniques, can allow sufficient removal of subgaleal hematoma with minimal morbidity, especially in patients such as ours.

Rapidly progressing monoparesis caused by Chiari malformation type I without syringomyelia

BACKGROUND

Patients with Chiari malformation type I (CM-I) can manifest neurological symptoms, such as headache, neck pain, dysesthesia, swallowing disturbance, and paresis, which are usually stable or slowly progressive even if syringomyelia is coexistent. In some instances, however, acute onset of neurological symptoms has been reported but the pathogenetic mechanism and subsequent clinical course have not been explained. In those cases, it was reported that urgent treatment of foramen magnum decompression (FMD) was very effective. This work reports that an 11-year-old girl with CM-I subacutely developed unique symptoms and that urgent treatment of FMD was very effective.

CASE DESCRIPTION

We present here an 11-year-old girl with CM-I who subacutely developed dysphagia, left upper extremity monoparesis and sensory dysesthesia, with the limb assuming a peculiar posture at rest, with the wrist in extension and the elbow joint in flexion. Although her symptoms were assumed to be due to previously diagnosed CM-I without syringomyelia, no differences on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) could be found except for slight change in the shape of tonsils compared with the previous ones. FMD and C1 removal with duraplasty was performed and resulted in an excellent neurological recovery.

CONCLUSION

This case is a reminder that the presence of a new neurological deficit referable to nuclei within, or tracts that traverse, the cerebromedullary junction is a firm surgical indication for FMD in a patient with CM-I. MRI was nearly identical during the asymptomatic and symptomatic periods in this case, and did not explain the timing of symptom onset.

Visualization of angiographical arteriovenous shunting in perisylvian glioblastomas

BACKGROUND

Arteriovenous shunting visualized by angiography is one of the major features of glioblastomas, and the visualization is dependent on the presence of extensive shunting. Extensive arteriovenous shunting is associated with the risk of poorly controlled intraoperative bleeding. When a tumor with extensive arteriovenous shunting is located in close proximity to the eloquent regions of the brain, a meticulous surgical procedure is necessary. In the present study, the site-oriented visualization of angiographical arteriovenous shunting was evaluated from the perspective of surgical treatment, with a particular focus on the perisylvian region that is in close proximity to motor and language regions (dominant hemisphere), as well as large arteries and veins.

METHODS

Twenty-six consecutive patients underwent a resection of glioblastoma between February 2007 and September 2012. All patients were presurgically examined using digital subtraction angiography. The patients were subdivided into the following two groups based on the location of the tumor: 1) perisylvian glioblastoma (18 patients) and 2) non-perisylvian glioblastoma (eight patients). Angiography to detect the arteriovenous shunting was performed. In addition, the number of intratumoral vessels, tumor proliferative activity (MIB-1 labeling index), and volume of intraoperative bleeding were evaluated and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

Angiographical arteriovenous shunting was definitively visualized in 13 of 18 (72 %) perisylvian glioblastomas, in contrast to only one of eight (13 %) non-perisylvian glioblastomas (p = 0.007). There were no significant differences between the two groups with respect to the number of intratumoral vessels, MIB-1 labeling index, and volume of intraoperative bleeding. However, massive intraoperative bleeding of > 2,000 mL occurred in one perisylvian glioblastoma patient.

CONCLUSIONS

Glioblastomas in the perisylvian region tend to be associated with extensive arteriovenous shunting that can be definitively visualized by performing an angiography. Because arteriovenous shunting carries the risk of intraoperative bleeding, perisylvian glioblastomas-particularly in the dominant hemisphere-should be resected with a meticulous surgical procedure and strategy.

Receptor tyrosine kinases: principles and functions in glioma invasion

Protein tyrosine kinases are enzymes that are capable of adding a phosphate group to specific tyrosines on target proteins. A receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) is a tyrosine kinase located at the cellular membrane and is activated by binding of a ligand via its extracellular domain. Protein phosphorylation by kinases is an important mechanism for communicating signals within a cell and regulating cellular activity; furthermore, this mechanism functions as an "on" or "off" switch in many cellular functions. Ninety unique tyrosine kinase genes, including 58 RTKs, were identified in the human genome; the products of these genes regulate cellular proliferation, survival, differentiation, function, and motility. Tyrosine kinases play a critical role in the development and progression of many types of cancer, in addition to their roles as key regulators of normal cellular processes. Recent studies have revealed that RTKs such as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), platelet-derived growth factor receptor (PDGFR), c-Met, Tie, Axl, discoidin domain receptor 1 (DDR1), and erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular carcinoma (Eph) play a major role in glioma invasion. Herein, we summarize recent advances in understanding the role of RTKs in glioma pathobiology, especially the invasive phenotype, and present the perspective that RTKs are a potential target of glioma therapy.

Postoperative diabetes insipidus associated with pituitary apoplexy during pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Pituitary apoplexy during pregnancy is so rare that only 15 cases (12 pituitary adenomas, 2 lymphocytic neurohypophysitis, and 1 normal pituitary gland) have been published to date. Here, we report the case of a pregnant woman presenting with pituitary apoplexy from a nonfunctioning pituitary adenoma and provide a possible mechanism and management option for postoperative diabetes insipidus (DI).

CASE PRESENTATION

A 26-year-old woman presented with sudden onset of headache and bitemporal hemianopsia in the 26th week of her first pregnancy. Magnetic resonance imaging clearly revealed an 18 mm pituitary mass with a fluid-fluid level component displacing the optic chiasma upward. Endonasal endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery was successfully carried out 7 days after the onset of symptoms. DI became apparent immediately after the operation and was not controllable by arginine vasopressin (AVP) but by 1-desamino-8-D-arginine vasopressin (DDAVP) instead. This finding suggests an association between DI and vasopressinase secretion from the placenta, because vasopressinase can degrade AVP but not DDAVP. DI had diminished by the time the patient delivered a healthy girl at the 40th week of gestation.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative DI associated with pituitary apoplexy during pregnancy should be treated by DDAVP, which is not affected by placental vasopressinase secretion.

Scrotal migration of the peritoneal catheter of a ventriculoperitoneal shunt in a 5-year-old male. Case report

A 5-year-old male presented with scrotal migration of the catheter from a ventriculoperitoneal shunt manifesting as left scrotal swelling 4 months after implantation. Surgical obliteration of the patent peritoneal processus vaginalis that forms a corridor from the peritoneum to the scrotum was performed to avoid shunt malfunction. Review of the 26 reported cases including the present case revealed that most patients were up to 18 months old. Our patient was the oldest. Migration tended to occur within 6 months after implantation (mean 3.8 months, median 1.0 month). Involvement of the right side of the scrotum was prevalent (23 of 26 cases). Patent processus vaginalis and small peritoneal cavity probably contribute to scrotal catheter migration.

Implication of 5-aminolevulinic acid fluorescence of the ventricular wall for postoperative communicating hydrocephalus associated with cerebrospinal fluid dissemination in patients with glioblastoma multiforme: a report of 7 cases

OBJECT

Fluorescence-guided surgery using 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) has been broadly recognized as a beneficial tool for the resection of glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Fluorescence in the ventricular walls, which were apparently free of macroscopic tumor or MR imaging enhancement indicative of CSF dissemination, was detected during surgery for GBM. To evaluate the clinical significance of the 5-ALA fluorescence, the authors resected ventricle wall tissue together with the adjacent tumors for pathological examination and then followed up the clinical courses of the patients.

METHODS

Seven consecutive GBMs located near the lateral ventricle were surgically treated using a fluorescence-guided technique with 5-ALA at the authors' hospital since acquiring instrumentation for the detection of 5-ALA fluorescence in 2007. All of the procedures were performed using a ventricular entry, and 5-ALA fluorescence of the ventricular wall was detected despite the absence of macroscopic tumor invasion of the wall.

RESULTS

A pathological examination of the resected ventricular wall tissues revealed tumor cells in 6 of the 7 cases and disruption of the ependymal cell layer in all 7 cases. Delayed communicating hydrocephalus followed surgery in all 7 patients, and ventricular wall enhancements on MR imaging were demonstrated after hydrocephalus in 2 of the patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Data in this study suggest that 5-ALA fluorescence of the ventricular wall may be predictive of postoperative hydrocephalus associated with CSF dissemination even in cases without evidence of CSF dissemination on MR imaging studies before surgery. The authors also speculate that postoperative radiotherapy covering the whole ventricular system may be a better therapeutic option for these patients.

Sphingosine-1-phosphate receptor type 1 regulates glioma cell proliferation and correlates with patient survival

Sphingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) is a bioactive lipid that signals through a family of G protein-coupled receptors consisting of 5 members termed S1P(1-5), and it regulates cellular proliferation, migration and survival. We investigated the expression and role of S1P receptors in glioma. Human glioma expressed S1P(1), S1P(2), S1P(3), and S1P(5) by quantitative real-time PCR analysis. Expression of the S1P(1) was significantly lower in glioblastoma than in the normal brain (p < 0.01) and diffuse astrocytoma (p < 0.05). Immunoblotting showed that normal brain expressed more S1P(1) protein than did glioblastoma. Immunohistochemistry showed that S1P(1) was localized predominantly in the astrocytes in the normal brain, but no staining was observed in glioblastoma. Downregulation of S1P(1) expression correlated with poor survival of patients with glioblastoma (p < 0.05). S1P(1) small interfering RNA promoted cell proliferation in high-expressor glioma cell lines (T98G, G112). Cell proliferation was promoted by the pertussis toxin, which deactivates G(i/o) type of G proteins; the S1P(1) is exclusively coupled to these proteins. Forced expression of the S1P(1) in low-expressor cell lines (U87, U251) resulted in decreased cell growth and led to suppressed tumor growth in transplanted gliomas in vivo. Furthermore, we found a significant association between the S1P(1) expression and early growth response-1, a transcriptional factor that exhibits tumor suppression in glioblastoma cells (p < 0.05). These data indicate that the downregulation of S1P(1) expression enhances the malignancy of glioblastoma by increasing cell proliferation and correlates with the shorter survival of patients with glioblastoma.