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Calcified extra-axial cavernoma involving lower cranial nerves: technical case report
Alessio Albanese1, Carmelo L Sturiale, Quintino G D'Alessandris
1Institute of Neurosurgery, Catholic University School of Medicine, Rome, Italy.
Neurosurgery
|February 26, 2009
Summary
A rare calcified cerebellopontine angle (CPA) cavernoma compressing cranial nerves (CNs) was surgically removed. Prompt intervention is crucial for preventing neurological deficits from CPA cavernomas.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
- Vascular Malformations
Background:
- Extra-axial cavernomas involving cranial nerves (CNs) are rare vascular malformations causing potential neurological deficits.
- Cerebellopontine angle (CPA) cavernomas are exceptionally uncommon.
Observation:
- A unique case of a calcified, angiographically occult CPA cavernoma involving lower CNs is presented.
- The patient, a 48-year-old male, exhibited gait instability and hoarseness due to the mass.
- Radiological studies indicated a calcified mass with additional lesions suggestive of multiple cavernomas.
Findings:
- Surgical removal via a retrosigmoid approach successfully excised the calcified mass, which was adherent to the lower CNs.
- Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of cavernoma.
- Postoperative improvement was noted, despite a transient worsening of voice tone.
Implications:
- CPA cavernomas, though rare and generally benign, necessitate surgical management due to chronic CN compression.
- Surgical treatment is essential to prevent significant neurological deficits.
- The clinical and radiological presentation can mimic other CPA tumors, underscoring the importance of accurate diagnosis and timely intervention.
