Choroid Plexus Papilloma

Brain tumour

Choroid Plexus Papilloma Overview

Choroid plexus papilloma is a type of tumor that grows on the choroid plexus in the brain. It is generally not cancerous or likely to spread to other areas. It may cause your brain to create too much cerebrospinal fluid and block its drainage.

A CPP tumor grows in the choroid plexus. This is a layer of tissue within the brain that makes the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). CSF surrounds and cushions the brain and spinal cord. The choroid plexus lines the ventricles of your brain, which store the CSF. 

In adults, CPP tends to form in the fourth ventricle, while in children it forms on the lateral ventricle. The fourth ventricle is in between the cerebellum and the brainstem. The cerebellum is the part of your brain that controls your balance and coordination. The brainstem controls your breathing, swallowing, eye movements, and other vital functions.

Choroid Plexus Papilloma Causes

Healthcare providers do not yet know what causes CPP. It is possible that certain infections, genetic factors, immune system problems, or environmental factors play a role in causing these tumors. In some cases, CPP may be linked with certain rare gene changes (mutations).

Choroid Plexus Papilloma Symptoms

CPP most often leads to increased pressure in the brain. This can cause symptoms such as:

  • Headache
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Sleepiness
  • Eye problems (secondary to cranial nerve deficits)
  • Dizziness and balance problems
  • Difficulty walking
  • Changes in hearing

Your symptoms may be different, depending on the location of the CPP tumor in your brain.

Choroid Plexus Papilloma Diagnosis

The process starts with a medical history and a physical exam. Your healthcare provider will ask about your symptoms and past medical conditions. He or she may also ask about your family’s medical history. The physical exam may include a neurologic exam. During a neurologic exam, your healthcare provider may ask you to do things like walk, touch your finger to your nose, or hold your hands out. He or she may look in your eyes with a light. Tests may be done, such as: 

  • CT scan. This is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. Scans may be done of your brain.
  • MRI. This test uses large magnets and a computer to create images of the body. MRI scans of your brain may be done to get more information. Contrast dye may be used to help show more detail in the images.  
  • Biopsy. Small pieces of tissue are taken from the tumor. They are looked at with a microscope in a lab.

Choroid Plexus Papilloma Diagnosis

The main treatment for CPP is surgery. Complete removal of the tumor with surgery usually cures CPP. These tumors rarely come back. In most cases, patients with CPP have a good outcome after surgery.

If a CPP tumor is only partly removed, it may grow again, but it likely will not spread. An atypical CPP is more likely to come back after treatment. If CPP does come back, you may need chemotherapy or radiation therapy to treat it.

You will need to work with your medical team to decide on the best treatment plan for you. You will need to have ongoing follow-up with your healthcare provider. This will include repeated imaging tests to check if the tumor comes back.