Lateral extradural, supratentorial neurenteric cyst.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Neurosurgery
• Developmental Biology

Background:

• Neurenteric cysts are rare, benign congenital lesions originating from endodermal tissue, typically found in the spinal canal.
• Intracranial neurenteric cysts are uncommon, with the posterior fossa being the most frequent location.
• Supratentorial neurenteric cysts, particularly those situated laterally, represent an exceptionally rare subset of these lesions.

Observation:

• The rarity of supratentorial neurenteric cysts and their diverse imaging characteristics often impede accurate preoperative diagnosis.
• A comprehensive literature review identified no previously reported cases of extradural supratentorial neurenteric cysts.
• The presented case involves an extradural giant neurenteric cyst with an unusual extension into both supratentorial and infratentorial compartments.

Findings:

• This report details an exceptionally rare extradural giant neurenteric cyst.
• The cyst's unique anatomical involvement spanned both supratentorial and infratentorial regions.
• The findings underscore the significant heterogeneity observed in intracranial neurenteric cysts.

Implications:

• The diagnosis of neurenteric cysts can be challenging due to their rarity and variable presentation.
• This case expands the known spectrum of neurenteric cyst presentations.
• Neurosurgeons and radiologists should include neurenteric cysts in the differential diagnosis for cystic intracranial lesions, especially when atypical features are present.