Cerebellar oligodendroglioma mimicking spinal degeneration in an elderly male: A case report and literature review

Oligodendroglioma is a rare malignant brain tumor typically found in the frontal lobes of younger adults. Herein, we report the case of a 77-year-old man with symptoms of progressive gait instability, dizziness, intermittent occipital headaches, urinary incontinence, and facial hypomimia for over 6 months following a minor head trauma. Initial cranial computed tomography and spinal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested post-concussion syndrome and lumbar spondylosis, which delayed the diagnosis. Worsening symptoms prompted a brain MRI, which revealed a left cerebellar mass. Surgical resection was performed 7 months after symptom onset, confirming oligodendroglioma. Post-operative radiotherapy led to a marked improvement in balance and resolution of headaches, with no recurrence at the 6-month follow-up. This case highlights the diagnostic challenge of cerebellar oligodendrogliomas in older adults, emphasizing the need for early MRI when progressive neurological symptoms are disproportionate to initial imaging findings.