Intracranial extraosseous chondroblastoma simulating meningioma

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Orthopedic Oncology
• Radiology

Background:

• Extraosseous chondroblastomas are rare benign bone tumors typically found in peripheral locations.
• Intracranial involvement of extraosseous chondroblastoma has not been previously documented.
• The cavernous sinus is a complex anatomical region prone to various neoplastic and vascular lesions.

Observation:

• An 18-year-old woman presented with symptoms necessitating neuroimaging.
• Computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance (MR), and conventional angiography were performed.
• Imaging revealed a lesion in the right cavernous sinus.

Findings:

• Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of extraosseous chondroblastoma.
• The intracranial location of this tumor is unprecedented.
• Radiological features on CT, MR, and angiography simulated a meningioma.

Implications:

• This case expands the known anatomical distribution of extraosseous chondroblastoma.
• It underscores the importance of considering rare diagnoses in the differential for intracranial masses.
• Enhanced awareness among radiologists and neurosurgeons is crucial for accurate diagnosis and management of such atypical presentations.