Chordoid glioma of the third ventricle: a patient presenting with SIADH and a review of this rare tumor.

Abstract

Chordoid glioma of the third ventricle is a rare and recently described tumor characterized by a unique histomorphology and exclusive association with the suprasellar/third ventricular compartment. Its clinical, radiological and histological features may vary. Despite the fact that chordoid glioma is a low-grade tumor, its prognosis has been relatively poor because of its insidious presentation and the difficulty in obtaining complete surgical resection. Here, we report on a new case of chordoid glioma occurring in a 48-year-old woman, presented with hyponatremia, and on the initial work-up with a diagnosis of hyponatremia due at least in part to SIADH. We review the current literature on this rare pathology, discuss the radiological and histopathologic findings, and discuss the optimal management of chordoid glioma in general. Based on this new case and the previous literature reports, we suggest that chordoid glioma should be included in the differential diagnosis of uncommon masses of the third ventricle, especially in middle-aged women, and we emphasize current management guidelines.