Surgical treatment of cerebellar hemangioblastomas

BACKGROUND Hemangioblastomas (HBL) are uncommon tumors of the central nervous system (CNS), corresponding to 1-2.5% of all intracranial tumors. They can present sporadically or in patients with von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease and are most often located in the cerebellum, brainstem, and spinal cord. VHL disease is a multiple neoplasia syndrome inherited in an autosomal dominant fashion and caused by a VHL suppressor gene deletion. We present our experience in the management of patients with cerebellar HBL. METHODS Thirty consecutive patients with cerebellar HBL were included in this study. Hospital charts, radiological images, and operative records were reviewed. Modified Rankin scores were used to evaluate the clinical course. RESULTS Thirty patients diagnosed with cerebellar HBL were operated. Complete total resection was achieved in 93% of the cases. Postoperatively, 83% of the patients showed good functional recovery. CONCLUSIONS HBL of the cerebellum should be resected when symptomatic or when the tumor (or a tumor-associated cyst) shows signs of enlargement. Surgical intent should seek en bloc resection to minimize intraoperative bleeding. Patients with HBLs must be tested for VHL gene mutations, and in confirmed cases, relatives should be offered genetic counseling.