The clinical spectrum of Blake's pouch cyst: report of six illustrative cases

Erwin M. J. Cornips*, Geke M. Overvliet, Jacobiene W. Weber, Alida A Postma, Christianne M. Hoeberigs, Marcella M. L. L. Baldewijns, Johannes S. H. Vles

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticleAcademicpeer-review

Abstract

Although Blake's pouch cyst (BPC) is frequently mentioned in the spectrum of posterior fossa cysts and cystlike malformations since its first description in 1996, its natural history, clinical presentation, specific imaging characteristics, optimal treatment, and outcome are relatively unknown. Consequently, BPC may still be underdiagnosed. We therefore report six cases ranging from a fatal hydrocephalus in a young boy, over an increasing head circumference with or without impaired neurological development in two infants, to a decompensating hydrocephalus at an advanced age. We focus on their radiological uniformity, which should help making the correct diagnosis, and widely variable clinical presentation, which includes adult cases as well. Differentiating BPC from other posterior fossa cysts and cystlike malformations and recognizing the accompanying hydrocephalus are essentially noncommunicating, not only have important implications on clinical management but also on genetic counseling, which is unnecessary in case of BPC. In our experience, endoscopic third ventriculostomy is a safe and effective treatment option, avoiding the risks and added morbidity of open surgery, as well as many shunt-related problems.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)1057-1064
JournalChild's Nervous System
Volume26
Issue number8
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Aug 2010

Keywords

  • Blake's pouch cyst
  • Dandy-Walker malformation
  • Hydrocephalus
  • Posterior fossa cyst
  • Treatment

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