Subependymoma of the thoracic cord: potential pitfalls in diagnosis.

Subependymomas are rare tumours, usually intracranial, which have a distinctive histological appearance and a relatively benign nature. A symptomatic case of a thoracic spinal intramedullary tumour is presented. Complete removal with neurological recovery was achieved. Increased awareness of this lesion is desirable. Histological examination of small tumour specimens may result in an erroneous tissue diagnosis of astrocytoma and inadequate treatment.