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Ultrastructural profile of microcystic meningioma
L Cuccurullo1, C Parlato, M Luongo
1Department of Public Health, Section of Pathology, Second University of Naples, Italy.
Objective:
Microcystic meningioma was originally classified as a subtype of meningioma by the World Health Organization classification of brain tumours in 1993, and accounts for 1.6% of intracranial meningiomas. This subtype is a variety of meningioma in which micro- and macro-cysts are diffuse. The morphologic characteristics are well defined, while the histogenetic mechanism that give rise to these patterns remain unclear.
Materials And Methods:
The authors present an electron microscopic study of an unusual case of fronto-temporal microcystic meningioma, manifesting as history of headache, right paresis and dysphasia in a 73-year-old female. Computer tomography revealed a large hypodense mass in the left fronto-temporal region, with slight contrast enhancement.
Results:
Ultrastructural observation showed complex alterations among small vessels and intratumoral capillaries in a background of severe modification in vessel permeability.
Conclusions:
This electronic microscopy study documented that growth of the cyst was due not only to accumulation of in extracellular fluid, but also to cytolysis consequent to ingravescent hydropic degeneration.
Insights
Microcystic meningiomas are rare brain tumors. Electron microscopy reveals cyst growth results from extracellular fluid accumulation and cell death due to hydropic degeneration.
Area of Science:
- Neuropathology
- Oncology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Microcystic meningioma, a World Health Organization-classified subtype since 1993, constitutes 1.6% of intracranial meningiomas.
- Characterized by diffuse micro- and macro-cysts, its precise histogenetic mechanisms remain elusive.
- Understanding the pathogenesis of microcystic meningioma is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment.
Observation:
- An electron microscopic study examined an atypical fronto-temporal microcystic meningioma in a 73-year-old female presenting with headache, right hemiparesis, and dysphasia.
- CT imaging identified a large, hypodense left fronto-temporal mass with minimal contrast enhancement.
- The case provided a unique opportunity to investigate the ultrastructural features of this rare meningioma subtype.
Findings:
- Ultrastructural analysis revealed significant alterations in small vessels and intratumoral capillaries.
- Severe modifications in vascular permeability were observed, suggesting a role in tumor development.
- Cystic growth was attributed to both extracellular fluid accumulation and cytolysis secondary to hydropic degeneration.
Implications:
- This study elucidates the ultrastructural basis of cyst formation in microcystic meningioma.
- Findings contribute to a deeper understanding of meningioma pathogenesis.
- Further research into vascular dynamics and cellular mechanisms may inform therapeutic strategies for microcystic meningiomas.
