Pilocytic astrocytomas usually present within the first two decades of life with a peak age of presentation at ten years old. Patients present with headache, nausea and vomiting. The typical radiographic appearance is that of an enhancing mural nodule as well as a nonenhancing cystic component. Other common locations include the optic chiasm and hypothalmus as well as around the third ventricle. When occurring in the region of the vermis, obstructive hydrocephalus occurs relatively early.
Surgery is usually curative, but prognosis does depend on cellular morphology.
Diagnostic Radiology . Neuroradiology , 3rd Edition.