Spinal cord ganglioglioma

Ganglioglioma of the spinal cord is a rare tumor that affects predominately the pediatric population. This type of intramedullary spinal cord neoplasm is generally considered benign, corresponding to WHO grade II. Common presenting symptoms include pain, neurologic deficits, and spinal deformity. Because of the indolent clinical course, risk of recurrence, and relative ineffectiveness of additional treatment modalities, early diagnosis with imaging as well as early surgical intervention are highly recommended. Complete, or near complete, resection usually results in long-term progression-free survival, and improvement of neurological status is achievable despite aggressive surgery. Improved microsurgical techniques, preoperative planning with MRI, and intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring have made a significant impact on the management of all spinal cord tumors including gangliogliomas.