Myxopapillary ependymomas presenting in the soft tissue over the sacrococcygeal region

Abstract

Seven myxopapillary ependymomas presenting in the soft tissue over the sacrococcygeal area are described. Clinically, a mass, thought to be a pilonidal cyst or sinus, was a common presenting feature. An origin from heterotopic ependymal tissue over the sacrococcygeal area best explains the location of these tumors. Histologically, the myxopapillary ependymoma has a typical papillary pattern with mucinous degeneration of the stroma beneath the covering ependymel cells. The best therapy is complete surgical excision; however, if removal is incomplete, recurrence would be expected, possibly after a long period. Irradiation therapy must be considered as palliative treatment. Myxopapillary ependymomas should be considered in the differential diagnosis of soft tissue or subcutaneous tumors in the sacrococcygeal area.