Causes & Risk Factors
Choroid plexus papilloma
A choroid plexus papilloma is a rare tumor of the choroid plexus that can cause hydrocephalus, sometimes by overproducing CSF.
In short: Choroid plexus papilloma
- It is a rare, usually benign tumor of the choroid plexus.
- It can cause hydrocephalus by overproducing CSF or obstructing flow.
- It is one of the few causes of CSF overproduction.
- Treatment often involves removing the tumor.
What it is
A choroid plexus papilloma is a rare, usually benign tumor arising from the choroid plexus — the tissue that produces CSF. Because of its origin, it has an unusual relationship to CSF dynamics.
Understanding Choroid plexus papilloma
A choroid plexus papilloma can cause hydrocephalus in two ways: by overproducing CSF (since it arises from CSF-producing tissue) and by obstructing CSF flow or absorption. Overproduction of CSF is a rare mechanism of hydrocephalus overall, and choroid plexus tumors are among its main causes. Treatment often involves surgically removing the tumor, which can address both the overproduction and any obstruction; sometimes CSF diversion is also needed. These tumors are more common in young children and are identified on brain imaging.
Why it matters
Understanding choroid plexus papilloma helps families see one of the few situations in which hydrocephalus results from CSF overproduction, and why removing the tumor can address the underlying cause.
Common questions
What is a choroid plexus papilloma?
A rare, usually benign tumor of the choroid plexus.
How can it cause hydrocephalus?
By overproducing CSF or obstructing flow.
How is it treated?
Often by removing the tumor.
Bottom line
A choroid plexus papilloma is a rare tumor that can cause hydrocephalus by overproducing CSF, often treated by removing the tumor.
Browse all 265 Hydrocephalus definitions
Read the Hydrocephalus patient guides
Not sure which page you need? Put words to it with the symptom navigator