Seven Cases of Frontal Tumour with Psychiatric Presentation

¹ Senior Registrar, Central Hospital, Warwick

A review of seven cases of frontal tumour presenting with psychiatric and other symptoms is given, with particular emphasis on presenting personality change, work ability, amnesia, disorientation and alteration in motor activity.

History, examination and radiology, including angiography, were most helpful in diagnosis. The seven tumours were basal, frequently extending and adherent and pressing on local structures. Persistent disabilities, both mental and physical, are noted after operation, and subsequent improvement is marked by return of drive and ability to work.

In the diagnosis and treatment of these patients, the general practitioner, social worker, mental welfare officer, neurologist, psychiatrist, neurosurgeon and their ancillary departments, EEG, pathology and radiology all play vital roles. In the hope of earlier diagnosis, and in view of this persistent postoperative symptoms, there is need for closer co-operation between departments.