Everolimus treatment of subependymal giant cell astrocytoma

Abstract

The Tuberous Sclerosis Complex is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder with multisystemic manifestations. One of those is the subependymal giant cell astrocytoma, a minimally infiltrative lesion, commonly located in the lateral ventricle and frequently manifestated by symptoms related to increased intracranial pressure. Surgical resection is the gold standard of treatment, however, a new molecule, called Everolimus, which blocks mTOR, a protein responsible for intracellular growth and cell proliferation, is a new option for these patients because it carries less morbidity and mortality. We present a case report of a patient of 4 years, 10 months who presented with limitation of movements of the left side of the body and who later was diagnosed with subependymal giant cell astrocytoma. He was treated with Everolimus showing significant decrease in tumor size and resolution of symptoms.