Pineoblastoma en el adulto. A propósito de un caso

Fundamento: Los pineoblastomas son tumores cerebrales infrecuentes dentro del grupo de los tumores primitivos neuroectodérmicos. La presentación clínica por lo general está relacionada con la obstrucción del acueducto de Silvio, lo que ocasiona hidrocefalia e hipertensión intracraneal. Objetivo: Describir las características clínicas e imagenológicas de un paciente adulto con diagnóstico de pineoblastoma. Presentación de caso: Masculino, 33 años, que comenzó con disminución de la agudeza visual que evolucionó a la amaurosis bilateral y trastorno de la marcha. Se diagnosticó hidrocefalia obstructiva triventricular, por lo cual se realizó tercer ventriculostomía endoscópica. Se decidió un abordaje supracerebeloso infratentorial a la lesión tumoral, con apoyo endoscópico en posición semisentado; se logró la resección parcial. En estudio inmunohistoquímico se encontró Ki-67 mayor de 50 % de las células, neurofilamento y sinaptofisina positiva. Se concluyó como pineoblastoma. Recibió radioterapia convencional con Co-60, fraccionada, con un total de 30 dosis diarias de 2 Gy. La evolución del paciente a los 6 meses de operado fue satisfactoria. Conclusiones: El tratamiento combinado de cirugía y radioterapia constituye un esquema terapéutico ideal en este tipo de lesiones tumorales. La endoscopia es una herramienta de gran valor en los abordajes quirúrgicos a la región pineal.

Background: Pineoblastomas are infrequent brain tumors among the neuroectodermal primitive tumors. Clinical presentation is usually related to Silvian aqueduct obstruction, which causes hydrocephalus and intracranial hypertension. Objective: To describe the clinical and imagenological characteristics in an adult patient diagnosed with pineoblastoma. Case presentation: Male, 33 years old, who started with visual acuity decline that evolved to bilateral amaurosis and gait disorder. Triventricular obstructive hydrocephalus was diagnosed, therefore, an endoscopic third ventriculostomy was realized. It was decided to use an infratentorial supracerebellar approach to the tumor lesion, with endoscopic support in semi-seated position; partial resection was achieved. In immunohistochemical study, Ki-67 was found to be higher than 50% of the cells, neurofilament and synaptophysin positive. It was concluded as pineoblastoma. He received fractionated Co-60 conventional radiotherapy, with a total of 30 daily doses, 2 Gy. The evolution of the patient 6 months after surgery was satisfactory. Conclusions: The combined treatment of surgery and radiotherapy constitutes an ideal therapeutic scheme in this type of tumor lesions. Endoscopy is a tool of great value in surgical approaches to the pineal region.

Pineocytoma with malignant transformation to pineal parenchymal tumor with intermediate differentiation and leptomeningeal dissemination after subtotal tumor resection and adjuvant radiotherapy

Pineocytoma is a rare tumor. It is rare for pineocytoma to present as leptomeningeal metastasis. We present a rare case of pineocytoma with malignant transformation and leptomeningeal metastasis after subtotal tumor resection and adjuvant radiotherapy. This case was a 58-year-old male with an unsteady gait for 2 months. Enhanced brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a heterogeneous mass involving the pineal region. The initial pathological diagnosis of pineocytoma was confirmed after subtotal tumor resection. Two years after adjuvant radiotherapy to the primary site, the magnetic resonance imaging showed C2 and T2 metastatic lesions, with the final pathological diagnosis being pineal parenchymal tumor (PPT) with intermediate differentiation after the removal of T2 intramedullary tumor. After that adjuvant radiotherapy at the cervical and thoracic spinal cord was completed. There was no recurrence of the tumor 1 year after the radiotherapy. We report a rare case of pineocytoma with malignant transformation to PPT with intermediate differentiation and leptomeningeal dissemination.

Actualización sobre los tumores de la región pineal / Update on pineal region tumors

Introducción: Los tumores de la región pineal constituyen un grupo heterogéneo de lesiones agrupadas más por su localización común que por su relación histológica. Pueden clasificarse en tumores de células germinales, del parénquima pineal, embrional y de estructuras adyacentes. Objetivo: Caracterizar la fisiopatología de los tumores de la región pineal y algunos aspectos de su tratamiento. Métodos: Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica, se seleccionaron estudios relacionados con la fisiopatología de los tumores de la región pineal y su manejo. Las fuentes de información consultada fueron Google Scholar, PubMed, SciElo y Dialnet; se utilizaron los descriptores: neoplasias pineales, pinealoma, neoplasias encefálicas. Se seleccionaron 23 artículos, más del 75 por ciento son de los últimos 5 años. Desarrollo: La tasa y la velocidad de crecimiento de estas neoplasias determinan la rapidez con la que se instauran los diversos síntomas, de ahí que la presentación más común es la hidrocefalia triventricular, acompañada de dolor de cabeza, náuseas, vómitos, disminución de la actividad, somnolencia o letargo y alteraciones visuales. También se pueden observar paresias y síndromes endocrinos. El diagnóstico se basa en la exploración de marcadores tumorales en suero, líquido cefalorraquídeo, tomografía y resonancia magnética. Finalmente, la quimioterapia y la intervención quirúrgica constituyen las principales alternativas terapéuticas tras el diagnóstico de la enfermedad. Conclusiones: Este tipo de neoplasia es poco frecuente, sus manifestaciones clínicas dependen de la localización, tamaño y tipo de tumor; además, el tratamiento suele ser quirúrgico y posterior a la quimioterapia, si las características de la neoplasia lo permiten(AU)

Introduction: Tumors of the pineal region constitute a heterogeneous group of lesions better grouped by their common location than by their histological relationship. They can be classified into tumors of germ cells, pineal parenchyma, embryonal and adjacent structures. Objective: To characterize the pathophysiology of pineal region tumors and some aspects of their treatment. Methods: A literature review was carried out, we selected studies related to the pathophysiology of pineal region tumors and their management. The information sources consulted were Google Scholar, PubMed, SciELO and Dialnet; the descriptors were used pineal neoplasms, pinealoma, brain neoplasms. Twenty three articles were selected, more than 75percent are from the last 5 years. Results: The rate and speed of growth of these neoplasms determine the speed with which the various symptoms are established, hence the most common presentation is triventricular hydrocephalus, accompanied by headache, nausea, vomiting, decreased activity, drowsiness or lethargy and visual disturbances. Paresis and endocrine syndromes may also be seen. The diagnosis is based on the examination of tumor markers in serum, cerebrospinal fluid, tomography and magnetic resonance imaging. Finally, chemotherapy and surgery are the main therapeutic alternatives after diagnosis of the disease. Conclusions: This type of neoplasm is rare, the clinical manifestations depend on the location, size and type of tumor; in addition, the treatment is usually surgical and then chemotherapy, if the characteristics of the neoplasm allow so(AU)

Correlation of Lumbar Intervertebral Disc Degeneration, Abdominal Aortic Calcification on Plain X-ray and Pineal Gland Calcification at CT in Patients with Low Back Pain

Background: The lumbar spine, or low back, is a remarkably well-engineered structure of interconnecting bones, joints, nerves, ligaments, and muscles all working together to provide support, strength, and flexibility. However, this complex structure also leades the low back susceptible to injury and pain. To find out the correlations among plain radiographic findings of lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration, abdominal aortic calcification & CT findings of pineal gland calcification in low back pain subjects. Material & Methods:This observational analytical study was carried out in the Department of Radiology and imaging of the Bangladesh Institute of Research and Rehabilitation in Diabetes, Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders (BIRDEM) from 1 January 2011 to 31 December 2012. A total of 100 subjects attending the department of Radiology and imaging, BIRDEM for X-ray of the Lumbosacral spine and CT scan of the brain with low back pain were enrolled first for the study. A complete history was taken either from the patient or accompanying attendants. Relevant investigations reports were collected. All the information was recorded in the data collection sheet. Collected data were classified, edited, coded and entered into the computer for statistical analysis by using SPSS-23.Results:The mean age of study subjects was 61.26 years with a standard deviation of the mean (SD) of 13.34 years and their age ranged from 41 to 74 years. It was observed that nearly two-thirds (61.7%) of the subjects were male and 38.3% were female and the male-female ratio was 1.6:1. It was seen that majority of the subjects had a density of the Pineal gland ranging from +51 to +150 HU. Only 4 subjects had a density of Pineal gland ranging from +351 to +1000 HU. Meant SD density of the Pineal gland among a total of 30 subjects was 136.98164.11 HU. In Group X, the density of Pineal Gland was 83,57 14.45 HU. The density of the Pineal gland was 134.65±13.23HU and 151.66+21.32 HU in Group Y and Group Z respectively. Some parameters of the degenerative disc disease and aortic wall calcification. had a significant positive association with calcification. with the density of Pineal gland calcification.Conclusions:The study was undertaken to find out the Correlation between lumbar intervertebral disc degeneration, abdominal aortic calcification on plain X-ray and Pineal gland calcification at CT in low back pain subjects. The data obtained showed that the density of pineal gland calcification is statistically significant with increasing age. There was also a positive association between intradiscal calcification and density of pineal gland calcification, but no significant association among other parameters with the density of pineal gland calcification

Regulatory aspects and evidences of melatonin use for sleep disorders and insomnia: an integrative review / Aspectos regulatórios e evidências do uso de melatonina em distúrbio do sono e insônia: uma revisão integrativa

ABSTRACT Background: Insomnia is a sleep disorder characterized by difficulty of falling asleep or maintaining sleep, which affects different age groups. Currently, melatonin is used as a therapeutic treatment in cases of insomnia in children, adults, and elderly people. Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of melatonin in sleep disorders, its dosage, potential adverse effects, as well as labeling laws and regulations in Brazil. Methods: This integrative review was carried out using the Cochrane Library, Medline (Pubmed), and Science Direct databases. Twenty-five articles and three documents available on the Brazilian Society of Endocrinology and Metabology (SBEM) and National Health Surveillance Agency (ANVISA) websites published between 2015 and 2020 were selected to be evaluated in full. Results: It was found that in most of the selected articles the use of melatonin reduces sleep latency. The effective melatonin doses varied according to each age group, from 0.5 to 3 mg in children, 3 to 5 mg in adolescents, 1 to 5 mg in adults, and 1 to 6 mg in elderly people. Side effects are mild when taking usual doses. In Brazil, no registered drug and current regulation on the use and marketing of melatonin has been identified. Conclusion: The use of melatonin is an alternative therapy that can be used for sleeping disorders. According to the evidences found, it did not demonstrate toxicity or severe side effects, nor dependence even when administered at high doses, suggesting that it is a safe medication to treat patients of different ages suffering from sleeping disorders.

RESUMO Antecedentes: Insônia é um distúrbio do sono caracterizado por dificuldade de iniciar e manter o sono, afetando diferentes faixas etárias. Atualmente, a melatonina é utilizada no tratamento de insônia em crianças, adultos e idosos. Objetivo: Avaliar a eficácia da melatonina nos distúrbios do sono, posologia e potenciais efeitos adversos, bem como a regulamentação vigente no Brasil. Métodos: Trata-se de uma revisão integrativa, os artigos foram identificados nas bases de dados Cochrane Library, Medline (Pubmed) e Science Direct, totalizando 25 artigos, e foram selecionados três materiais disponíveis no site da Sociedade Brasileira de Endocrinologia e Metabologia e Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária, publicados entre 2015 e 2020. Resultados: Verificou-se na maioria dos artigos selecionados que a melatonina reduz a latência do sono. Quanto as dosagens de melatonina identificou-se variação em cada faixa etária, para crianças de 0,5 a 3mg; adolescentes de 3 a 5mg; adultos de 1 a 5mg e idosos 1 mg a 6 mg demostraram serem eficazes. Em doses habituais os efeitos colaterais são leves. No Brasil, não foi identificado medicamento registrado e regulamentação vigente sobre o uso e comercialização de melatonina. Conclusão: A utilização da melatonina é uma alternativa que pode ser utilizada em distúrbios do sono. De acordo com as evidências encontradas, não demonstrou toxicidade ou efeitos colaterais severos, nem dependência mesmo em doses elevadas, sendo, portanto, segura para tratamento de pacientes desde crianças a idosos que sofrem de distúrbios do sono.

An Unusual Dermoid Cyst of the Pineal Region: Case Report in a Child

Introduction The pineal gland is a common location for intracranial germ cells, but dermoids are not commonly observed in this area. In the present paper, we discuss the clinical and radiological features as well as the treatment and outcome of this cyst in a 6-year- old child with a pineal dermoid cyst. Case Presentation The patient presented with chronic headache 6 months before admission in 2018. On the first admission, an enhanced lesion with a small cyst was detected in brain imaging. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain at follow-up (2 months after the first presentation) showed enlargement of the cyst size with compression on the adjacent structures. Radical excision of the tumor was performed after the endoscopic biopsy due to pressure exerted on the adjacent structures. Conclusion Dermoid cyst should be considered as a differential diagnosis for enhanced lesions of the pineal region.

DESCARTES and his project of a fantasized brain / DESCARTES e seu projeto de um cérebro fantasioso

ABSTRACT. Interest in anatomy dates from the earliest times. Such knowledge was acquired through dissections of animals and human corpses by many researchers. The macroscopic anatomy of the varied structures of the brain were identified over the centuries, and the predominating solid substance was seen as amorphous, and devoid of any specific function, until the Renaissance. René Descartes, a personage with a brilliant and creative mind, conceived the brain, its structure and function, in a distinct manner to what was known at his time. He valued the solid matter and gave it, for the first time, a theoretical minute structure, related to a presumptive function based on the presence of the pineal gland and the animal spirits, underlying cognitive, sensory and motor activities. Such structural view was endorsed, in a given sense, by the microscopic findings of Marcello Malpighi, which begun to change the understanding of the nervous system.

RESUMO. O interesse pela anatomia data desde a mais remota antiguidade. Esse conhecimento foi adquirido por meio de dissecções em animais e cadáveres humanos, por muitos pesquisadores. A anatomia macroscópica de variadas estruturas do cérebro foi identificada com o passar dos séculos, e a substância sólida predominante foi vista como amorfa e destituída de qualquer função específica até o período do Renascimento. René Descartes, um personagem com uma mente brilhante e criativa, concebeu o cérebro, sua estrutura e função, de um modo distinto ao que era conhecido no seu tempo. Ele valorizou e deu à substância sólida, pela primeira vez, uma estrutura teórica formada por elementos minúsculos, relacionada a uma função presuntiva, baseada na presença da glândula pineal e dos espíritos animais, subjacentes às atividades cognitiva, sensorial e motora. Essa vista estrutural foi, de certa maneira, endossada pelos achados microscópicos de Marcello Malpighi, o que começou a modificar a compreensão do sistema nervoso.

Prevalence of pineal gland and choroid plexus calcification among iraqi patients attending CT scan units / Prevalencia de calcificación de la glándula pineal y del plexo coroideo entre pacientes iraquíes que asisten a las unidades de tomografía computarizada

SUMMARY: Pineal gland calcification is the most common physiological intracranial calcification followed by the choroid plexus calcification. The objective of the study was to determine the prevalence of the pineal gland and choroid plexus calcification among the Iraqi population attending computed tomography scan units in Baghdad, estimate the mean diameters of the pineal gland calcification, and to detect any correlation between these calcifications with age and sex. This multi-centric cross-sectional study examined 485 CT scans of Iraqi patients between the ages of 1 and 100 years attending CT scan units in the period 1 December 2018 to 1 April 2019. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used. The prevalence of pineal gland calcification was found to be 68 % with the 30-39 age group and male sex predominance. It was found to increase after the first decade of life without real consistency. The mean for pineal gland calcification anterior-posterior diameter was 4.55±2.13 and the mean of the right-left diameter was 3.95±1.54. These diameters were found to differ according to sex and age. Choroid plexus calcification was found to have a prevalence of 53.6 %. In most cases, choroid plexus calcification was found bilaterally (77.3 %). There was no difference in sex, but choroid plexus. In conclusion, calcification was noticed to increase gradually according to age. Both pineal gland and choroid plexus calcification have a relatively high prevalence. While pineal gland calcification formation was demonstrated to have a close relation to age and sex, choroid plexus calcification formation was noticed to relate only to age.

RESUMEN: La calcificación de la glándula pineal es la calcificación intracraneal fisiológica más común después de la calcificación del plexo coroideo. El objetivo del estudio fue determinar la prevalencia de calcificación de la glándula pineal y del plexo coroideo entre la población iraquí que asiste a las unidades de tomografía computarizada en Bagdad, estimar los diámetros medios de la calcificación de la glándula pineal y detectar la posible correlación entre estas calcificaciones con la edad y el sexo. Este estudio transversal multicéntrico examinó 485 tomografías computarizadas de pacientes iraquíes entre 1 y 100 años de edad que asistieron a unidades de tomografía computarizada en el período del 1 de diciembre de 2018 al 1 de abril de 2019. Se utilizaron estadísticas descriptivas e inferenciales. Se encontró una prevalencia de calcificación de la glándula pineal del 68 % con predominio del sexo masculino en el grupo de 30 a 39 años. Se observó que aumentaba después de la primera década de vida sin una coherencia real. La media del diámetro anteroposterior de la calcificación de la glándula pineal fue de 4,55 ± 2,13 y la media del DIÁ- METRO derecho-izquierdo fue de 3,95 ± 1,54; estos diámetros difieren según el sexo y la edad. La calcificación del plexo coroideo tiene una prevalencia del 53,6 %. En la mayoría de los casos, la calcificación del plexo coroideo se encontró de forma bilateral (77,3%). No hubo diferencia de sexo, no obstante en el plexo coroideo se observó que la calcificación aumentaba gradualmente según la edad. Tanto la calcificación de la glándula pineal como del plexo coroideo tienen una prevalencia relativamente alta. Si bien se demostró que la formación de calcificación de la glándula pineal está relacionada con la edad y el sexo, se observó que la formación de calcificación del plexo coroideo se relaciona solo con la edad.

Papillary Tumor of the Pineal Region:Report of One Case / 中国医学科学院学报

We report a case of papillary tumor in the pineal region.The imaging findings mainly included:(1)slight high density on CT images;(2)short T1 signal,cystic changes,and evident enhancement on magnetic resonance imaging.

Tumor pineal resuelto por Abordaje Infratentorial Supracerebeloso Endoscópico. Reporte de un caso y revisión de la literatura / Pineal tumor resolved by Endoscopic Supracerebellar Infratentorial Approach. Case report and literature review

Introducción: Los tumores de la región pineal constituyen un grupo heterogéneo de lesiones localizadas en la porción posterior del tercer ventrículo bajo el esplenio del cuerpo calloso y encima de la lámina cuadrigémina. Dentro de estos, los tumores del parénquima pineal constituyen un grupo frecuente. En estas lesiones no existe actualmente un protocolo establecido debido a la ausencia de grandes series. Se sugiere una combinación de cirugía y radioterapia con o sin quimioterapia. El tratamiento de elección es la resección total, sin embargo, muchas veces no es posible por dificultades técnicas. En este contexto, la cirugía con visualización endoscópica puede contribuir a lograr este objetivo. Descripción del caso: Se presenta un paciente masculino de 22 años de edad con lesión de región pineal e hidrocefalia obstructiva triventricular al que se le practicó una tercerventriculostomía endoscópica y un abordaje infratentorial supracerebeloso con total visualización endoscópica. Se describe la técnica quirúrgica y se realiza un análisis crítico de la literatura actualizada. Conclusiones: Los tumores de la región pineal constituyen un reto terapéutico. La resección total es el principal objetivo en lesiones de grado intermedio o bajo de malignidad. El abordaje infratentorial supracerebeloso con total visualización endoscópica es efectivo en la resección quirúrgica de estas lesiones al mejorar la visualización y minimizar la retracción cerebelosa

Introduction: Pineal region tumors are a variable group of lesions located in the posterior wall of the third ventricle under the corpus callous splenium and above the tectal plate. Pineal gland tumors are frequent. There is not a standard protocol in these lesions due the lack of large series. A combination of surgery and chemo therapy or radiotherapy are recommended. The complete surgical resection is the treatment of choice. However, usually it is not possible to accomplished this goal due to technical limitations. In this scenario, the endoscopic visualization could contribute to archive the goal. Patient characteristics: A 22 years old young male patient with a pineal region lesion and obstructive hydrocephalus is presented. A third ventriculostomy was performed and an infratentorial supracerebelous approach with fully endoscopic visualization. The surgical technique is described and a critical review of literature is performed. Conclusions: Pineal region tumors represents a therapeutic challenge. Total removal is the most important objective in intermediate or low-grade lesions. The infratentorial supracerebelous approach with full endoscopic visualization is effective and improve the visualization while reducing the cerebellar retraction.

Papillary tumor in pineal region: Immunohistochemistry meeting the diagnostic challenge

Papillary tumor of pineal region (PTPR) is extremely rare and poses diagnostic challenge with other central nervous system tumors having papillary architecture. Immunohistochemistry is crucial for a definitive diagnosis of PTPR.

Improvement Effects of Isopimpinelline on PCPA-induced Pineal Gland Injury Model Rats and Its Effects on Expression of Biological Clock Gene / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE：To study the improvement effects of isopimpinelline on p-chlorophenylalanine（PCPA）-induced pineal injury model rats and its effect on expression of biological clock gene. METHODS ：Totally 60 rats were divided into blank control group（2％ polysorbate solution），model control group （2％ polysorbate solution），positive control group （melatonin，10 mg/kg） and isopimpinelline high-dose ，medium-dose and low-dose groups （3，1.5，0.75 mg/kg）. Except for blank control group ，rats in other groups were given PCPA intraperitoneally （450 mg/kg）to establish pineal injury model. After modeling finished ，they were given relevant medicine intragastrically ，once a day ，for consecutive 7 d. On the 6th day of administration ，the sleep latency and sleep duration of rats in each group were investigated by pentobarbital sodium coordination sleep test ；after last administration ， ELISA assay was used to determine the serum level of melatonin in rats. Fluorescence microscope and electron microscope were used to observe the pathological tissue and cell ultrastructure changes of the pineal gland. RT-qPCR was used to detect the mRNA expressions of biological clock gene Clock，Bmal1，Per1，Per2，Per3，Cry1，Cry2 in pineal gland of rats. RESULTS ：Compared with blank control group ，model control group had significantly longer sleep latency （P＜0.05）；serum melatonin ，mRNA expressions of Bmal1 and Per1 in pineal gland were significantly decreased （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）while mRNA expression of Per3 was increased significantly （P＜0.05）. The pineal gland cell arrangement disorder ，nuclear pyknosis ，vacuolar degeneration increased and cell number decreased significantly ；mitochondria swollen ，cristae broken and pyknosis were observed. Compared with model control group ，the sleep latency of isopimpinelline high-dose group was shortened significantly （P＜0.05），sleep duration time was prolonged significantly （P＜0.05）；the levels of melatonin in serum ，mRNA expressions of Clock，Bmal1， Per1，Cry1 and Cry2 in pineal gland of rats were increased significantly （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01）. In isopimpinelline medium-dose group，the sleep latency was shortened significantly （P＜0.05）；the levels of melatonin in serum and mRNA expressions of Clock， Bmal1，Per1，Cry1，Cry2 in pineal gland were increased significantly （P＜0.05 or P＜0.01），while mRNA expression of Per3 was decreased significantly （P＜0.05）. In isopimpinelline low-dose group ，the levels of mRNA expressions of Clock，Bmal1，Per2 and Cry2 were increased significantly （P＜0.05），while mRNA expression of Per3 was decreased significantly （P＜0.05）. Cell arrangement disorder was improved and nuclear pyknosis vacuole degeneration was decreased to some extent in isopimpinelline groups；mitochondria swelled ，cristae fractured ，and pyknosis decreased to some extent. CONCLUSIONS ：Isopimpinelline can improve PCPA-induced pineal gland injury in rats ；it can up-regulate the expressions of positive regulators Clock，Bmal1 and negative regulators Per1，Per2，Cry1，Cry2，while down-regulate the expression of negative regulator Per3.

Resección microquirúrgica de meningioma de la región pineal / Microsurgical resection of meningioma of the pineal region

Introducción: Los meningiomas de la región pineal son lesiones poco frecuentes, representando el 2 al 8% de los tumores localizados en esta área. Estos tumores son lesiones con comportamiento biológicamente benigno y potencialmente curables con la resección quirúrgica radical. A su vez representan un desafío quirúrgico debido a su profunda localización y la cercanía de estructuras anatómicas vitales. El abordaje supracerebeloso infratentorial, en posición semisentado (cuando las condiciones generales del paciente lo permiten), provee un corredor natural a la región pineal mediante la retracción cerebelosa gravitatoria. Objetivo: Presentación de la exéresis microquirúrgica completa de un meningioma de la región pineal. Descripción del caso: Paciente de 52 años que consulta por inestabilidad de la marcha y diplopía de 2 semanas de evolución. La resonancia magnética cerebral mostró una lesión expansiva, que realza con contraste, de 43 x 30 mm en la región pineal, con hidrocefalia obstructiva acompañante. Se realiza la exéresis microquirúrgica mediante abordaje supracerebeloso infratentorial con el paciente en posición semisentado. Resultado: Se realizó la exéresis completa de la lesión. La paciente cursó el primer día postoperatorio en Unidad de Terapia Intensiva y luego pasó a sala de internación general. Fue dada de alta al tercer día, sin déficit neurológico. La anatomía patológica de la lesión informó meningioma transicional (OMS grado I). El control imagenológico postquirúrgico mostró la resección de la lesión sin remanente tumoral. Conclusión: Los meningiomas de la región pineal presentan un desafío quirúrgico debido a la relación con estructuras anatómicas vitales. El abordaje supracerebeloso infratentorial ofrece un corredor anatómico natural mediante la retracción cerebelosa por la gravedad.

Background: Meningiomas of the pineal region are rare lesions representing 2 to 8% of the tumors located in this area. These tumors are lesions with biologically benign behavior and potentially curable by radical surgical resection. As well, they are a surgical challenge due to their deep location and the proximity to vital anatomical structures. The supracerebellar infratentorial approach, in a semisitting position (when the patient's general conditions allow it), provides a natural corridor to the pineal region through gravitational cerebellar retraction. Objetive: Presentation of a complete microsurgical resection of a meningioma of the pineal region. Case description: A 52-year-old patient who consulted due to gait instability and diplopia of 2 weeks of evolution. Brain magnetic resonance showed an expansive lesion, with contrast enhancement, 43 x 30 mm in the pineal region, with obstructive hydrocephalus. The microsurgical resection was performed by supracerebellar infratentorial approach with the patient in a semisitting position. Result: The complete microsurgical resection was achieved. The patient spent the first postoperative day in Intensive Care Unit, and then went to general room. He was discharged on the third postoperative day, without neurological deficit. The histopathology assessment of the lesion reported transitional meningioma (WHO grade I). Post-surgical imaging showed the resection of the lesion without remaining tumor. Conclusion: Meningiomas of the pineal region present a surgical challenge due to the relationship with vital anatomical structures. The supracerebellar infratentorial approach offers a natural anatomical corridor through cerebellar retraction by gravity.

Changes of the Melatonergic System in Bipolar Disorder: A Literature Review / 우울ㆍ조울병

Recently, melatonergic agents have been gaining much interest in the treatment of mood disorders. The elucidation of the underlying biological mechanisms related to the melatonergic system in mood disorders is warranted to ensure the proper use of melatonergic agents. Changes of the melatonergic system have been investigated in several studies of patients with bipolar disorder (BP) and depression. Accumulating evidence has indicated that patients with BP might exhibit abnormal melatonin secretion patterns, increased light-induced melatonin suppression, altered pineal gland volume, genetically abnormal melatonin synthesis enzyme, and modified melatonin receptors. In this review, the findings of studies performed to explore the association between the melatonergic system and BP are discussed. Moreover, the interpretations and limitations of these findings are described.

Quiste benigno de la glándula pineal en paciente con retinoblastoma bilateral. Reporte de caso y revisión de la literatura / Benign pineal gland cyst in a patient with bilateral retinoblastoma. Case report and literature review

Introducción: Los pacientes con Retinoblastoma (RB) hereditario se encuentran en riesgo de desarrollar otros tipos de tumores malignos primarios extraoculares durante la vida. Dentro de estos tumores se encuentra el pinealoblastoma, un tipo de neoplasia maligna que aparece en la glándula pineal y que se puede desarrollar en cualquier momento del diagnóstico del retinoblastoma bilateral. Objetivo: Presentar un caso inusual de retinoblastoma (RB) hereditario tratado y en remisión quien desarrolló un quiste pineal benigno. Diseño del estudio: Reporte de caso y revisión de literatura. Resumen del caso: Presentamos un paciente con diagnóstico de RB hereditario tratado y en remisión quien desarrolló un quiste pineal benigno durante el seguimiento clínico. Las lesiones quísticas de la glándula pineal reportadas por resonancia magnética son infrecuentes en edad pediátrica, sin embargo, su incidencia se ve aumentada en pacientes con RB, lo que genera incertidumbre sobre la posibilidad de presentar una neoplasia maligna. Aún se desconoce el mecanismo fisiopatológico de la aparición de quistes de la glándula pineal en pacientes con RB hereditario, pero podría tener relación con la alteración genética o con el tratamiento quimioterápico que reciben los pacientes para el tumor primario intraocular. Conclusión: Las características imagenológicas son fundamentales para diferenciar entre lesiones benignas y malignas de la glándula pineal en pacientes con retinoblastoma hereditario y para hacer el estrecho seguimiento junto con el examen clínico.

Background: Patients with hereditary Retinoblastoma (RB) are at risk of developing other types of extraocular primary malignancies throughout life. Among these tumors, pinealoblastoma is a type of malignancy that appears in the pineal gland and can develop at any time from the diagnosis of bilateral retinoblastoma. Objective: To present an unusual case of a patient with a diagnosis of hereditary BR who developed a pineal cyst. Study design: Case report. Case summary: We present in this article the case of a patient with a diagnosis of hereditary BR with remission who developed a pineal cyst during clinical follow-up. The cystic lesions of the pineal gland reported by magnetic resonance are infrequent in pediatric age, however its incidence is increased in patients with RB, which generates uncertainty about the possibility of the development of a primary pineal gland malignancy. The pathophysiological mechanism of pineal gland cysts in patients with hereditary RB is still unknown, but it could be related to a genetic alteration or to chemotherapy treatment that these patients receive for the primary intraocular tumor. Conclusion: The imaging characteristics are fundamental to differentiate between benign and malignant lesions of the pineal gland in patients with Hereditary Retinoblastoma and to make a close follow up.

Uso da melatonina como curativo endodõntico em reimplante dentário de ratos pinealectomizados: estudo histométrico / Late dental replantation after the use of melatonia as an endodontic dressing: histological and morphometric study in pinealectomized rats

Dentre os vários tipos de traumas, a avulsão dentária representa uma condição crítica por deslocar o dente de seu ambiente natural, expondo-o a um meio externo seco e contaminado, resultando na reabsorção da raiz que pode ser parcial ou total. Pouco tem sido estudado sobre os fatores sistêmicos no processo de reparo em traumatismo dentário. Uma dessas condições é a deficiência da melatonina, que pode ocorrer em pessoas com hábitos noturnos. A sua deficiência tem sido relacionada a prejuízo no reparo de diversos tipos de tecidos, mas não existem estudos desta condição nos casos de traumas dentários. Assim o objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar a influência da melatonina no processo de reparo em reimplante dentário. Para isso estudou-se o emprego de um curativo endodôntico à base de melatonina (M) ou corticosteroide e antibiótico (CA) no reimplante tardio de incisivos de ratos, pinealectomizados (PNX) ou não. Foram utilizados 40 ratos divididos em 4 grupos de 10 animais. Em 2 desses grupos (PNX-M e PNX-CA), a glândula pineal foi removida cirurgicamente. Trinta dias depois, o incisivo superior direito desses animais foi extraído, a polpa radicular foi removida, os canais foram limpos, irrigados e secos. Na sequência, nos Grupos PNX-M e M, os canais foram preenchidos com curativo a base de melatonina a 3%. Nos grupos PNX-CA e CA os canais foram preenchidos com curativo à base de Doxiciclina e Triancinolona. O ápice foi selado com um plug de MTA e os dentes foram reimplantados nos alvéolos de origem. O período extrabucal em meio seco foi de 20 minutos. Os animais receberam dose única de penicilina G Benzatina por via intramuscular. A eutanásia foi realizada 45 dias depois e as peças contendo os dentes foram processadas para obtenção de lâminas que foram coradas em hematoxilina e eosina para análise histológica e morfométrica. Os resultados demonstraram que o grupo PNX-M foi mais comprometido pela reabsorção radicular do que os grupos PNX-CA e CA. Quando analisado somente o tipo de reabsorção, a reabsorção inflamatória foi a que predominou (p< 0,05). Pode-se concluir que o curativo endodôntico com melatonina a 3% proporcionou reparo semelhante ao do curativo com corticosteroide antibiótico nos dentes reimplantados em animais não pinealectomizados. Nos animais pinealectomizados o curativo com a melatonina a 3% foi menos efetivo no controle da reabsorção radicular, principalmente a reabsorção inflamatória(AU)

Among the various types of trauma, tooth avulsion is a critical condition for displacing the tooth from its natural environment, exposing it to a dry and contaminated external environment, resulting in partial or total root resorption. Little has been studied about the systemic factors in the process of dental trauma repair. One such condition is melatonin deficiency, which can occur in people with nocturnal habits. Its deficiency has been related to impairment in the repair of various tissue types, but there are no studies of this condition in cases of dental trauma. Thus, the objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of melatonin on the repair process in dental replantation. For this purpose, we studied the use of a melatonin-based endodontic dressing in late reimplantation of rat incisors, pinealectomized or not. Forty rats divided into 4 groups of 10 animals were used. In 2 of these groups (PNX-M and PNX-CA), the pineal gland was surgically removed. Thirty days later, the right upper incisor of these animals was extracted, the root pulp was removed, the canals were cleaned, irrigated and dried. Then, in the PNX-M and M Groups, the channels were filled with a 3% melatonin-based dressing. In the PNX-CA and CA groups, the channels were filled with Doxycycline and Triamcinolone dressing. The apex was sealed with an MTA plug and the teeth were reimplanted into the original alveoli. The extraoral period in dry medium was 20 minutes. The animals received a single dose of intramuscular penicillin G benzathine. Euthanasia was performed 45 days later and the teeth containing parts were processed to obtain slides that were stained with hematoxylin and eosin for histological and morphometric analysis. The results showed that the PNX-M group was more affected by root resorption than the PNX-CA and CA groups. When analyzing only the type of resorption, inflammatory resorption predominated (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that the 3% melatonin endodontic dressing provided similar repair to the antibiotic corticosteroid dressing on the reimplanted teeth in non-pinealectomized animals. In pinealectomized animals the dressing with 3% melatonin was less effective in controlling root resorption, especially inflammatory resorption(AU)

A brief review about melatonin, a pineal hormone

ABSTRACT Melatonin is a ubiquitous molecule in nature, being locally synthesized in several cells and tissues, besides being a hormone that is centrally produced in the pineal gland of vertebrates, particularly in mammals. Its pineal synthesis is timed by the suprachiasmatic nucleus, that is synchronized to the light-dark cycle via the retinohypothalamic tract, placing melatonin synthesis at night, provided its dark. This unique trait turns melatonin into an internal synchronizer that adequately times the organism's physiology to the daily and seasonal demands. Besides being amphiphilic, melatonin presents specific mechanisms and ways of action devoted to its role as a time-giving agent, being widely spread in the organism. The present review aims to focus on melatonin as a pineal hormone with specific mechanisms and ways of action, besides presenting the clinical syndromes related to its synthesis and/or function disruptions.

Meningioma of the Pineal Region ­ Differential Radiologic Aspects of Pineal Region Tumors Based on a Clinical Case

Pineal region tumors are uncommon among neoplasm of the central nervous system, with this region being the most heterogeneous in terms of histological types. Meningiomas are rarer still, but can be found at this site, with origins in either the velum interpositum or falcotentorial junction. Neuroimaging exams can distinguish malignant from benign lesions besides helping to define the origin of the lesion as the pineal parenchymal or surrounding structures. We report the case of a woman with a pineal region tumor in which differential diagnoses included meningioma and germinoma, with confirmation of the former based on radiological characteristics and histopathology. In addition, a brief review of differential diagnoses and approaches for cases of lesions in this region is provided.

Os tumores da região da pineal apresentam uma baixa frequência entre as neoplasias do sistema nervoso central, sendo esta região a mais heterogênea em termos de tipos histológicos possíveis. Meningiomas são lesões ainda mais raras, porém possíveis de advirem desta localização, sejam originados do velum interpositum ou da junção falcotentorial. Os exames de neuroimagem permitem distinguir lesões malignas de benignas além de auxiliar na definição entre origem do parênquima pineal ou de estruturas adjacentes. Apresentamos o caso de uma mulher adulta com uma neoplasia da região da pineal cujos diagnósticos diferenciais incluíram meningioma e germinoma, evidenciando-se pelas características radiológicas e resultados histopatológicos tratar-se do primeiro. Além disso, fazemos uma breve revisão a respeito dos diagnósticos diferencias e condutas frente a uma lesão desta região.

Mature teratoma of the pineal region in the paediatric age group: A case report and review of the literature

@#Introduction: Intracranial teratomas account for 0.5% of all intracranial tumours and 2-4% of intracranial tumours in children. However, in terms of tumours of the pineal area, the exact incidence is not ascertained. Although, it is noted that 50-60% of central nervous system (CNS) germ cell tumours are found in the pineal gland. The degree of difficulty in the sampling of lesions in the pineal gland during biopsy emphasizes the importance of correlating the imaging studies, histopathologic findings, and serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) tumour markers. Case Report: This case report is that of a 9-year-old male who presented with frontal headache of eight days, with associated photophobia, nausea and vomiting, and diplopia. Biopsy with intraoperative navigation was done and the specimen was referred for histopathologic evaluation. The biopsy showed findings consistent with a mature teratoma with no histologic findings of an immature component or secondary somatic malignancy. Comparison of the pre-operative and post-operative multiaxial cranial CT scan showed findings that was consistent with a residual lesion. This was correlated with the pre-operative serum tumour markers which showed alpha-fetoprotein of 22.5 ng/mL and beta-HCG of 1.0 mIU/mL(IU/L), and the post-operative tumour markers of the cerebrospinal fluid that showed alpha-fetoprotein of 3.28 ng/mL and beta-HCG of 18.9 mIU/mL (IU/L). Conclusion: A review of the literature and comparison with current case in relation to the histopathologic, serum and CSF findings, and imaging studies was done to better understand the mechanism of this lesion.

Manual Acupuncture Stimulation of Paired Acupoints Can Relieve Sleep Disorder Possibly by Upregulating Pineal Melatonin Protein and Its Receptor mRNA Levels in the Suprachiasmatic Nucleus in Insomnia Rats / 针刺研究

OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of manual acupuncture stimulation of paired "Baihui" (GV 20)+ "Shenmen" (HT 7), GV 20+ "Sanyinjiao" (SP 6), and GV 20+ non-acupoint on expression of melatonine (MT) and suprachiasmatic melatonin receptor 1 (MT1) and melatonin receptor 2 (MT2) mRNAs in insomnia rats, so as to explore their action difference and the underlying mechanism in improving insomnia. METHODS: Male SD rats were randomly divided into normal control (n=12), mo-del (n=8), GV 20+HT 7(n=12), GV 20+SP 6(n=11), and GV 20+ non-acupoint (n=10) groups. The insomnia model was established by intraperitoneal injection of Para-chlorophenylalanine suspension (50 mg/mL, 50 mg/100 g), once daily for 2 days. The abovementioned acupoints GV 20, bilateral HT 7, SP 6 and non-acupoints (the midpoint between the elbow-tip and armpit on the medial side of the upper-arm) were punctured with filiform needles and manipulated by rotating the needle for about 1 min which was repeated once again every 10 min during 30 minutes' needle-retaining. The treatment was conducted once daily for 7 days. The expression levels of MT immunoactivity in the conarium tissue, and MT1 and MT2 mRNAs of the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) region were detected using immunohistochemistry and fluorescence quantitative real time-PCR, respectively. RESULTS: After modeling, the expression levels of pineal MT (an increase of gray value means a decrease of immunoactivity), SCN MT1 and MT2 mRNAs were notably down-regulated in the model group relevant to the normal control group (P0.05). CONCLUSION: Manual acupuncture stimulation of GV 20+ HT 7 and GV 20+ SP 6 can improve the sleep disorder in insomnia rats, which may be related to its effects in increasing the levels of pineal MT protein, and MT1 and MT2 mRNAs in hypothalamic SCN.