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I have a benign dermoid tumor located above the basilar artery in the Circle of Willis. It was discovered by accident January 2015 with a CAT scan to the brain after I had fainted and taken a fall. It was followed up with an MRI. I can find very little information on this kind of malady and was told by my family physician not to worry about it unless I developed symptoms. The radiologist report also advised to follow up with a neurologist if symptoms arose. The problem is I have no idea what symptoms would signal a problem. I am 61 years old and in good health, but had a second fainting episode and fall in January 2016. I was referred to a cardiologist who diagnosed it as orthostatic hypotension. What symptoms could arise that would be attributed to this tumor given its location as opposed to normal age-related problems and/or orthostatic hypotension? I have no idea what symptoms could arise or what would signal that I should be referred to a neurologist.
Replies to "I have a benign dermoid tumor located above the basilar artery in the Circle of Willis...."
Hi @that_girl,
It is difficult to "Watch and Wait". But this doesn't mean you and your health care team are doing nothing. You and your team are actively monitoring your health.
Here is a list of general symptoms to keep an eye on http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/brain-tumor/symptoms-causes/dxc-20117134 However symptoms will vary depending on the exact location of your tumor. Also, as you mentioned, you have other health issues to consider. Your doctor can tell you more about symptoms to watch for specific to your situation. Have you had a follow up appointment to discuss this specifically?
Hi Colleen. Thank you for the link. My physician said look for "anything out of the ordinary". That is a broad list of possible symptoms.The location is just above the basilar artery in the circle of willis. This kind of tumor is very rare and little information is out there. I was just curious if the Mayo experts could narrow down what kind of symptoms would most likely indicate I should seek a referral to a neurologist. Unfortunately my insurance will not approve a referral to a specialist unless there are symptoms. I wasn't seeking a diagnosis or a treatment plan...just possible symptoms that could arise given the location. All is good!
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Hi @that_girl. Unfortunately, we cannot provide second opinions or make specific treatment recommendations through this correspondence. Some patients are asymptomatic. I did send your questions to a Neuroscience team member, and they recommend that you ask your primary care provider to research it, since they know your care best.