The utilization of sodium fluorescein in pediatric brain stem gliomas: a case report and review of the literature.

Introduction: A major challenge in the surgical resection of brainstem tumors is distinguishing tumor from normal tissue. One approach for addressing this problem is the use of fluorescent tracers such as sodium fluorescein (NaFl). NaFl disseminates through a disruption in the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and accumulates in the extracellular space of brain tumors. Intraoperative fluorescence microscopy can be performed to identify tumor tissue and avoid damage to adjacent, normal tissue. Here, we present the case of a 16-year-old male who underwent a left retrosigmoid craniotomy with splitting of the tentorium to remove a large exophytic brainstem tumor involving the cerebellar peduncle and with superior extension into the midbrain and thalamus.

Objectives: The primary objective of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of sodium fluorescein as an intraoperative technique and evaluate its potential benefit for resection of tumors in eloquent regions in the pediatric population. To do so, we focused on a case study approach; however, we also performed a literature review and evaluated different intraoperative fluorescent techniques and their benefits for tumor resection.

Methods: We performed a literature search using PubMed and Google Scholar by the key words "sodium fluorescein," "brain stem tumor," and "central nervous system neoplasms." Twenty-nine articles including both pediatric and adult populations were selected for analysis and qualitative review.

Results: In this case study, sodium fluorescein helped the surgeons to identify and obtain a gross total resection of a large brainstem tumor. The marker was especially helpful for discerning the inferior pole of the tumor buried inconspicuously in cerebellar tissue. We evaluate different fluorescent tracers, 5-ALA and ICG, and discuss their application and benefits in tumor resection surgery. We present different cases that found sodium fluorescein to be helpful in achieving a gross total resection.

Conclusion: The application of sodium fluorescein proved to be a safe and effective technique for the resection of brain stem tumors as shown in this case study. It helped to expose concealed areas and illuminate the tumor capsule. Further studies should test the clinical use of sodium fluorescein on brain stem tumor resection.