Hydrochapulus and Cyst

[Elizabeth313]

I have a seventeen year old son that has had several operations for shunt replacements in 2009.  He was diagnosed with Hydrochapulus and a Cysts in the "Small Brain" area.  The cysts is very large which covers nearly the entire bottom part of the brain at the back.  We have just had a CT scan done and they mentioned hypodensity in the Medulla area.  My son's behaviour has become very erratic, he is very depressed, and he is suicidal as he does not want to live.  He has lost all interest and can no longer participate in sport as he was left with a weakness on the left side of his body after the last operations.  We have been told that his "Small Brain" did not develop when he was born.  What can I do to help my son as life is becomming very hard to live him.

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Thank you for your question. It is sad to say that there is no other way to treat this condition, however symptomatic cure could be provided if this is not causing unbearable symptoms. Please consult with your neurologist for thorough review. Hope this helps.

[Elizabeth313]

He has a shunt already, but the neuro-surgeons said that if they remove the cysts then he will be paralized on the left side of his body.  Is there any other way they can remove that cysts that would not cause permanent damage.  Also would the hypodensity that is showing by the brainstem be a tumor.

Regards
liz

[Dr. A. Srivastava]

Thank you for your question. Although without being able to examine him I can not offer you the specific advice on diagnosis and treatment that he needs, but I would try to provide you some relevant information about his health concern.

Brain cyst may remain asymptomatic for long years, however if it is large it can cause headache, paralysis, seizures, hydrocephalus (by blocking foramina) and gait disorders. Therefore, surgical intervention is essential to remove the large cyst and if permanent damage needs to be avoided.  Craniotomy, needle aspiration and cerebral shunts are common surgical treatment that may help.  Please consult a neurologist right away in this regard. Hope this helps.