Purely Intraforaminal Meningioma in the Cervical Spine

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Spinal Oncology
• Neuroimaging

Background:

• Meningiomas are typically intradural spinal tumors, though some exhibit extradural extension.
• Intraforaminal meningiomas are rare, often presenting diagnostic challenges.
• Spinal meningiomas can cause neurological deficits due to mass effect.

Observation:

• A case of a purely intraforaminal meningioma is presented.
• The tumor involved the vertebral artery.
• Clinical presentation included cervicobrachial neuralgia and mild motor deficit, mimicking a neurogenic tumor.

Findings:

• The intraforaminal location and vertebral artery involvement are exceptional features.
• Histopathological confirmation of meningioma was established.
• Differential diagnosis included nerve sheath tumors and other neurogenic masses.

Implications:

• Highlights the importance of considering atypical meningiomas in the differential diagnosis of intraforaminal spinal tumors.
• Emphasizes the need for advanced imaging techniques to delineate tumor extent and vascular involvement.
• Case contributes to understanding rare spinal tumor presentations and surgical considerations.