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Published on: January 17, 2018
Meningiomas of the paranasal sinuses
R E Swain1, T T Kingdom, J M DelGaudio
1Department of Otolaryngology-Head & Neck Surgery, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia, USA.
Abstract:
Extracranial meningiomas are rare tumors, comprising approximately 2% of all meningiomas. Previously reported sites include the orbit, parapharyngeal space, and rarely, the paranasal sinuses. A retrospective chart review of patients with meningiomas was performed over the last 25 years, and three patients were identified with meningiomas involving the paranasal sinuses. The locations included the frontal sinus, the ethmoid sinus, and the sphenoid sinus. Presenting symptoms included facial pain and nasal obstruction; two patients noted facial swelling. Diagnosis was established via endoscopic transnasal biopsy in two patients. Computed tomographic (CT) guided biopsy was utilized to confirm the diagnosis in the third patient. Surgical extirpation was successfully performed with tumors arising from the ethmoid and frontal sinuses. The patient with neoplasm in the sphenoid sinus underwent radiation therapy. Extracranial meningiomas of the paranasal sinuses are rare tumors that may present a diagnostic and therapeutic challenge. We present three cases and discuss the clinical presentation, radiographic findings, diagnostic evaluation, and treatment options.
Insights
Extracranial meningiomas are rare tumors affecting the paranasal sinuses. This study reviews three cases, highlighting diagnostic and treatment challenges for these unusual neoplasms.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Oncology
- Otolaryngology
Background:
- Extracranial meningiomas are uncommon, accounting for about 2% of all meningiomas.
- These tumors typically arise within the skull but can occur in extracranial locations, such as the paranasal sinuses.
Observation:
- A retrospective review identified three patients with meningiomas involving the frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses over 25 years.
- Presenting symptoms included facial pain, nasal obstruction, and facial swelling.
- Diagnosis was confirmed through endoscopic transnasal biopsy in two patients and CT-guided biopsy in one.
Findings:
- Surgical removal was successful for tumors in the ethmoid and frontal sinuses.
- The patient with a sphenoid sinus meningioma received radiation therapy.
- Extracranial meningiomas of the paranasal sinuses pose diagnostic and therapeutic challenges.
Implications:
- Early diagnosis and tailored treatment are crucial for managing these rare tumors.
- This case series contributes to understanding the clinical presentation and management of sinonasal meningiomas.
- Further research is needed to optimize treatment strategies for extracranial meningiomas in this location.
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