Lesions/Condition:
Ependymoma

Cell of Origin:
Ependymal cells lining the ventricle and central canal of the cord

WHO Grade(s):
Ependymoma - Gr 2
Anaplastic Ependymoma - Gr 3
Myxopapillary - Gr 1
Subependymoma - Gr 1

Synonyms:

Associations/Predisposing Factors:
Neurofibromatosis Type 2

Common Locations:
70% in fourth ventricle

Demographics:
70% under the age of 20

Gross Morphology:
soft intracavitary mass

Histology:
sharply demarcated, perivascular pseudorosettes, ependymal rosettes (canals),

Special Stains:

Gross Appearance:
soft grayish sharply marginated, rarely invade brain
in spinal cord - sharply demarcated central masses

Radiology:
heterogeneous intraventricular mass
small chunks of calcification
small 'cystic' areas
intraspinal are sharply demarcated, often with a hemosiderin 'cap'

Prognosis and Treatment:
50% or more at 5 years