Pineal cysts are typically small, benign, non-neoplastic tumors originating from glial cells within the pineal gland. Prevalence on imaging is 1-4% of intracranial masses, with peak incidence occurring in late childhood (10-14 years of age) and falling throughout adulthood1. Women are more commonly affected than men1. Should a pineal cyst enlarge to a great extent, symptomatic presentation includes hydrocephalus, gaze paresis, and hypothalamic symptoms as discussed above. Positional headaches have also been associated with pineal cysts specifically. Asymptomatic pineal cysts 1.
References
- Al-Holou AN, Terman SW, Kilburg C, Garton HJL, Muraszko KM, Chandler WF, Ibrahim M, Maher CO. (2011). Prevalence and natural history of pineal cysts in adults: clinical article. Journal of Neurosurgery. 115(6): 1106-1114.