[Choroid plexus tumors in infancy].

Twelve infants with choroid plexus tumors were reviewed retrospectively. Enlarging head circumference, bulging fontanelle, and vomiting were the major symptoms and signs appearing 2 to 5 weeks (mean = 3.7 weeks) before diagnosis. The average age at diagnosis was 7.7 months. Total removal was performed in 11 patients with choroid plexus papilloma, and partial removal was achieved in 1 patient with a choroid plexus carcinoma. A cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) diversionary shunt was placed temporarily in 6 infants and permanently in 4. Of the two patients not requiring CSF diversionary shunt, 1 needed a subdural-peritoneal shunt postoperatively. Histologically, 11 of 12 tumors were choroid plexus papillomas, and one was a choroid plexus carcinoma. All 12 patients were followed up for 4 months to 11 years (mean = 5.6 years). Eleven of 12 patients were alive at the time of their last check-up. All 11 survivors had normal psychomotor and neurological development. The treatment and outcome of choroid plexus tumors and management of associated hydrocephalus are discussed.