Diagnosis
Brainstem (pons) lesion. Rathke's cleft cyst.
Patient:
Female, 33 years old, Belarus
Physician:
Prof. Dr. med. Martin Scholz, Head of Neurosurgery Department, Sana Hospital Duisburg
Patient’s Complaints:
Based on initial brain MRI results, I was diagnosed with a pontine glial tumor and a Rathke's cleft cyst. I wanted to obtain a second medical opinion from a German specialist. My first MRI was performed on May 19, and a follow-up MRI on August 1 showed no disease progression.
My current symptoms include weakness, a non-painful sense of occipital pressure (as if my hair is being pulled), mild nausea during the day—particularly on an empty stomach or after long intervals between meals—low mood, and low-grade fevers reaching up to 37°C.
Epxert Opinion by Prof. Martin Scholz:
I have carefully evaluated the provided brain MRI scans. A focal lesion located in the inferior aspect of the pons demonstrates contrast enhancement. It is plausible that we are dealing with a benign vascular lesion rather than a glial tumor. Furthermore, I consider the diagnosis of a Rathke's cleft cyst to be controversial.
My medical recommendation is to perform a follow-up MRI scan in 3 months to clarify both diagnoses and assess structural stability.
There is currently no indication for surgical intervention.
Patient Review:
In May, following a brain MRI, I was diagnosed with a glial tumor. I underwent a follow-up MRI two months later, which showed no changes, yet the initial diagnosis remained in place. Given the serious nature of the situation and the importance of timely care, I decided to seek an expert second opinion from a physician in Germany.
Konstantin helped me get in touch with Prof. Dr. Martin Scholz, a neurosurgeon with over 30 years of clinical experience, whose expertise I deeply trust. Prof. Scholz suggested a potential vascular lesion instead and recommended another follow-up MRI in 3 months. I am very grateful to Konstantin for his prompt assistance! Other platforms I contacted didn't even reply, whereas here I received an expert medical evaluation quickly.
I wish you continued success in helping as many people as possible—you are doing truly vital work!