Brainstem glioma presenting as paroxysmal headache.

An unusual case of brainstem glioma is described. The distinctive features were long duration (at least six months) of headaches preceding the appearance of neurological signs, and the intermittent, paroxysmal nature of the symptoms, often precipitated by postural change. The mechanism of headache induced by brain tumor is discussed, and a possible cause for the headaches in this patient is suggested, involving intermittent obstruction of CSF flow.