Recurrent spinal ependymoma showing partial remission under Imatimib

Summary.

Background. There are few treatment options for recurrent spinal ependymoma after surgery and radiation therapy.

Clinical presentation. We present a patient with recurrent spinal ependymoma who received radiation therapy after laminectomy and partial tumor resection. Months later, the patient developed gait paresis. MRT showed tumor recurrence and partial resection was again performed. Oral cytotoxic chemotherapy with Temozolomide was initiated. After a short relief, there was clinical worsening and MRT showed progressive disease. As the tumor had stained positively for platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor, treatment with Imatimib was initiated.

Findings. The patient experienced improvement in neurological symptoms and the following MRT revealed slight tumor regression. She remained stable for a total of 11 months.

Conclusion. Imatimib should be considered a potential therapeutic option in recurrent ependymomas expressing PDGF receptor.