Diagnosis
Giant pilocytic astrocytoma of the frontoparietal brain region. Hydrocephalus, status post-ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt placement.
Patient:
Child, 7 months old, Kazakhstan
Physician:
Prof. Dr. med. Martin Scholz, Head of Neurosurgery Department, Sana Hospital Duisburg
Expert Opinion by Prof. Martin Scholz:
Brain tumors in infants under 3 years of age typically exhibit rapid growth patterns and are frequently malignant. Based on the video footage provided, the child demonstrates a somnolent, apathetic clinical state uncharacteristic for a 6-month-old infant, clearly indicating significant intracranial pressure from the mass.
The provided brain CT scans confirm that a ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt is already in place, which was a vital intervention for the child's survival. The tumor is exceptionally large; however, it extends toward the cerebral cortex, providing a viable surgical corridor. A high-resolution MRI scan is required prior to surgery. At this stage, it remains uncertain whether complete resection can be achieved—if subtotal resection occurs, the prognosis becomes more guarded, and subsequent chemotherapy will likely be required.
Intraoperative blood loss represents the primary limiting factor in this procedure. We will perform dedicated MRI sequences at our hospital to map the tumor's vascularity. Pronounced hypervascularity would substantially increase surgical complexity. While this is a formidable and technically challenging case, definitive surgery is both feasible and urgently necessary. Treatment should commence as soon as possible.
Preliminary Cost Estimate: €37,300
Treatment Rendered:
A complex microsurgical resection of the giant, predominantly frontobasal brain tumor was performed. Histopathological examination established the definitive diagnosis of a WHO Grade I polycystic pilocytic astrocytoma. Postoperative contrast-enhanced brain MRI revealed no evidence of residual tumor mass.
Following surgery, the infant was progressively and successfully weaned from mechanical ventilation. To manage recurrent seizure activity, optimized combination anticonvulsant therapy was initiated. For ongoing neuropediatric, endocrinological, and gastroenterological monitoring, the child was safely transferred to a specialized pediatric clinic in their home country.
Patient’s Parents Review:
Hello friends! I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the team at GHP Pulse, particularly to Konstantin. A few months ago, our son was diagnosed with a giant brain tumor, and surgeons in Kazakhstan were unable to operate. We immediately began searching for specialized treatment abroad and were fortunate to connect with Konstantin from GHP Pulse.
They assisted us with every step of organizing our journey from Kazakhstan to Germany, including securing medical visas during pandemic restrictions, which was extraordinarily difficult. The surgery was performed by Prof. Dr. Martin Scholz, who successfully resected 98% of the tumor. Our child is currently undergoing neurorehabilitation back home in Kazakhstan. We are deeply grateful to Konstantin and wholeheartedly recommend GHP Pulse.