Primary Multifocal Gliosarcoma of the Spinal Cord

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Spinal Cord Pathology

Background:

• Gliosarcoma (GS) is a rare, malignant central nervous system neoplasm.
• GS is characterized by both gliomatous and sarcomatous cellular components.
• Typically, GS involves the cerebral parenchyma and meninges, with spinal cord involvement being rare.

Observation:

• A 54-year-old male presented with progressive bilateral lower extremity sensory deficits.
• Neuro-axis MRI revealed multiple intradural spinal cord lesions (cervical and thoracic).
• No intracranial involvement was detected.

Findings:

• Surgical resection confirmed gliosarcoma, WHO grade IV.
• Histopathology revealed both gliomatous and sarcomatous elements.
• Multiple lesions were observed, including extramedullary and intramedullary types.

Implications:

• This case demonstrates that gliosarcoma can primarily affect the spinal cord.
• It expands the known anatomical distribution of primary spinal cord gliosarcoma.
• Highlights the importance of considering spinal cord lesions in the differential diagnosis of unexplained neurological deficits.