Philippine Journal of Science
154 (3): 737-739, June 2025
ISSN 0031 – 7683

Christopher Brian M. Reyes and Rhoby U. Orata

 

ABSTRACT

Intracranial lipomas are rare congenital lesions, accounting for less than 1% of intracranial tumors, with a predominant occurrence in the pericallosal region. These lesions are typically asymptomatic and often identified incidentally, particularly in younger patients due to advancements in prenatal imaging. However, the presentation of intracranial lipomas in older patients is exceedingly rare, with only 4% of cases diagnosed after the age of 50. This case report details a 62-yr-old female who presented with focal seizures, intermittent facial numbness, and right-sided weakness. A cranial CT scan revealed a fat-attenuated mass, whereas subsequent MRI confirmed the diagnosis of a curvilinear pericallosal lipoma. Despite the rarity of such a diagnosis in the elderly, this case highlights the potential for intracranial lipomas to cause significant neurological symptoms, including epilepsy and focal weakness. The patient’s clinical management included anti-seizure medication, and her symptoms remained stable with no recurrence of seizures during follow-up. The report also emphasizes the importance of a thorough differential diagnosis, as intracranial lipomas can mimic other conditions such as gangliogliomas, cavernous malformations, and meningiomas. Given the absence of developmental abnormalities in this patient, the lipoma’s origin is presumed to stem from abnormal reabsorption of the primitive meninx during gestation. The management strategy in this case favored conservative treatment, consistent with the general approach for asymptomatic or minimally symptomatic lipomas. This case contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the challenges of diagnosing and managing intracranial lipomas in elderly patients, underscoring the need for careful clinical evaluation and individualized treatment plans. Ultimately, the report aims to enhance clinical awareness and guide future research on this rare condition.