Authors

  1. Richards, Jennifer
  2. Ballard, Narendra

A colloid cyst, also called a neuroepithelial cyst, is a slow-growing, benign tumor that occurs in the anterior third ventricle. The cyst typically blocks the foramen of Monro, causing obstructive hydrocephalus involving only the lateral ventricles. The most common presenting sign and symptom of a colloid cyst is headache. Less common presenting signs and symptoms include nausea, vomiting, memory loss, mental status changes, gait disorder, and visual disturbances. Surgical resection is the recommended treatment. Meticulous baseline and ongoing neurological assessments are of paramount importance in the care of a patient with a colloid cyst to promote optimal patient outcomes.