Colloid Cysts: A 15-Year Retrospective Review of Clinical Presentation and Outcomes

Introduction:
Colloid cysts of the third ventricle are uncommon but clinically significant. Some remain silent and are found incidentally, while others cause sudden neurological deterioration. In a few cases, this can be fatal without urgent treatment. Surgery is the mainstay, although complications are well recognized. We reviewed our experience over 15 years.

Methods:
We carried out a retrospective review of patients treated surgically for colloid cysts between 2010 and 2025. Hospital records were used to collect information on demographics, clinical features, operative details, and complications. Descriptive statistics were applied. This was a small cohort.

Results:
Fifteen patients were included. The mean age was 30 years (9 males, 6 females). More than half were diagnosed in the emergency department (53%). Four patients (27%) were detected incidentally and three (20%) were diagnosed in clinic. Headache was the most common symptom (87%). Nausea and vomiting were noted in 47%. Seizures occurred in two patients, and three presented with coma or rapid decline. Papilledema was documented in four. All underwent surgical resection, and some required perioperative shunts. Early complications were frequent, affecting 53%. Late complications were even more frequent, recorded in 87%. Memory problems were reported in 60% of patients. The median hospital stay was 11 days.

Conclusions:
In our setting, colloid cysts showed varied presentations. Surgery was effective, but complications—especially cognitive issues—were common. Careful perioperative planning and follow-up remain essential.