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Imaging of cervical extradural en-plaque meningioma. A case report
A D'Amico1, M Napoli, M Cirillo
1Department of Neurological Sciences, Neuroradiology Division, "Federico II" University of Naples; Naples, Italy - damicoalex@tiscali.it.
Abstract:
Meningioma is one of the most common spinal extramedullary tumors, largely intradural. An extradural localization is possible but less frequent. There are two morphologically different types of meningioma: one is round, and the other is the "en-plaque" form, that grows along the dura mater like a sheet. The "en-plaque" form, is unusual. We report on an unusual case of epidural and extraspinal "en-plaque" meningioma, describing the MRI and CT features and discussing the possible principal differential diagnosis (neurolymphomatosis, plexiform neurofibromas/schwannomas and metastasis).
Insights
This report details an unusual epidural and extraspinal "en-plaque" meningioma, a rare spinal tumor variant. It highlights key imaging features and differential diagnoses for this uncommon presentation.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Oncology
- Radiology
Background:
- Meningiomas are common spinal extramedullary tumors, typically intradural.
- Extradural meningiomas are less frequent.
- The "en-plaque" meningioma subtype, growing like a sheet along the dura mater, is particularly unusual.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report an extremely rare case of an epidural and extraspinal "en-plaque" meningioma.
- To describe the characteristic MRI and CT imaging findings of this specific tumor type.
- To discuss the critical differential diagnoses for this unusual spinal tumor presentation.
Main Methods:
- Case report of a patient with an epidural and extraspinal "en-plaque" meningioma.
- Detailed description of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Computed Tomography (CT) features.
- Comparative analysis with potential differential diagnoses including neurolymphomatosis, plexiform neurofibromas/schwannomas, and metastasis.
Main Results:
- The study presents an unusual case of an "en-plaque" meningioma located epidurally and extraspinally.
- Distinctive MRI and CT findings are described, aiding in tumor characterization.
- Differential diagnoses were considered based on imaging characteristics and clinical context.
Conclusions:
- "En-plaque" meningiomas, especially when epidural and extraspinal, represent a rare diagnostic challenge.
- Accurate interpretation of MRI and CT is crucial for diagnosis.
- Distinguishing this rare meningioma from other pathologies like neurolymphomatosis and metastasis is essential for appropriate patient management.
