Cyst or Tumor?

[MaMaJoJo67]

I was given an MRI three years ago that stated: "Incidental note is made of 7x9mm at least partially enhancing mass in the pineal gland region.  Nature uncertain.  Differential for this lesion includes pineocytoma versus pineal.  This lesion (especially its enhancement) may further be characterized with dedicated high resolution pre and post contrast MRI of the pineal region.  Otherwise follow up MRI to assure stability is recommended.

When I first found that note, I had asked my doctors about it, and they brushed me off.  A couple of weeks ago, I went to a new doctor (after tiring of being miserable for the last couple of years to pain and confusion) who asked what was done about the MRI.  When I said nothing, he ordered a new one... I'm waiting for the results.

I'm just wondering what the original note from my last MRI means, and if it changes, what are my options to do about it?  I'm tired of not getting answers.

[Yara_21]

In order to explain just how I can relate to you I have to tell you my short story.
I was 14 when I couldn't stand my headaches anymore. I figured they were migraines. I had an MRI. This is the report:
"The pineal gland measures 9.5mm in its greatest transverse dimensions and mostly follows the cerebral spinal fluid on all the pulse sequences except for th e rim which is slightly hyper intense to the central portion. No obvious mass effect is appreciated. The remaining portions of the brain parenchymal signal intensity are withing normal limits. No midline shift, mass effect, or evidence of abnormal enhancement is appreciated.
Cause of Headaches and Fatigue:
Most likely a pineal gland cyst. A pineocytoma is included within the differential."

Again that was 7 years ago. The headaches persisted but a lower intensity but they are more frequent. I now have to wear glasses. (not bifocals like you).

Also, I don' t think my doctor would take my new symptoms into consideration because I think he's now solemnly focused on just headaches. I'm afraid that if I tell him that I have difficulty articulating words, or phrasing sentences correctly at times, that he might just dismiss that because he might think I'm making that up.

I was unaware of the diagnosis back in 2008. I was just made aware that I have a 9.5mm pineal cyst a week ago. My next MRI is scheduled for next week.

[MaMaJoJo67]

Also, double vision with one eye covered, "drunk" walk, vertigo (? feels like my whole head is spinning, as if I'm going in circles and my brain's trying to catch up), and I can't seem to do a field sobriety test sober!???

[MaMaJoJo67]

Thanks for the quick reply.

What if it does cause symptoms?  I have been complaining of vision changes for the last couple of years, and all I got were bifocals that don't do any help at all.  I also have Fibromyalgia, so I'm not sure where those symptoms end and the rest start.

I have also had speech problems (hard time expressing myself, and finding words), slurring, excessive saliva, migraines, neck/head pain, temporary vision blackouts (?), fainting spells and memory loss.

[DrNoopurMD]

Hi,

Thanks for writing in.
It is very difficult to tell without looking at your MRI report and clinical exam. However based on your post there is a possibility of this growth being a pineacytoma or a pineal cyst. Pineal cyst is a benign growth which is usually asymptomatic but can cause symptoms like headaches and dizziness. It can also cause symptoms like blurry vision due to pressure on the optic nerve.

[selmaS]

I can't read ur MRI report,but can certanily understand ur frustration with the medical profession....I too am waiting way too long for the drs to start treatments....they move slower than snails....but getting a new dr is great...keep pushing.

Good luck
Godspeed
"selma"