Sudden unexpected death caused by a colloid cyst in the third ventricle: case report

Abstract

Abstract Background Colloid cysts arise from congenital abnormalities of the endodermis and are characteristically comprised of an external fibrous layer, with a lining of cuboidal and columnar epithelial cells and endodermal ciliated cells. They contain a gelatinous matrix, produced by mucus-producing epithelial cells. Case presentation An 8-year-old Saudi girl died in Dammam Central Hospital, to which she was admitted by her parents following her complaints of intense headaches. When the body was examined externally, it was noted that she had bilateral eye congestion, evidence of needle marks on all four limbs and in the region of the femoral triangle and bruising in the central chest and left shoulder areas. No other evidence of injury was noted. A cyst in the third ventricle of the brain was identified at post mortem. Investigations for alcohol, toxins and illicit substances were negative. Conclusion It was surmised that the child had died as a result of a cerebral colloid cyst and its clinical sequelae.