Benign meningioma metastasizing through CSF pathways: a case report and review of literature

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Neurosurgery
• Pathology

Background:

• Intraventricular meningiomas are rare tumors originating within the brain's ventricles.
• Metastasis of intraventricular meningiomas, particularly through cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pathways, is exceptionally uncommon.
• Malignant intraventricular meningiomas with CSF spread are documented in only four prior cases.

Observation:

• This case presents a benign intraventricular meningioma.
• The tumor demonstrated metastasis through the CSF pathways.
• Both the primary tumor and its recurrences were histologically benign.

Findings:

• A rare instance of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) metastasis from a benign intraventricular meningioma.
• Demonstrates that benign tumors can also disseminate via CSF pathways.
• Highlights the potential for recurrence of benign intraventricular meningiomas with metastatic behavior.

Implications:

• Challenges the assumption that CSF metastasis is exclusive to malignant meningiomas.
• Suggests the need for careful monitoring and consideration of metastatic potential even in histologically benign intraventricular meningiomas.
• May influence surgical and adjuvant treatment strategies for intraventricular meningiomas.