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A Case Report of a CPA Meningioma Presenting as Middle Ear Mass With Middle Ear Effusion
Ahmed Galal1, Omneya Ahmed1, Amal Abdelziz2
1Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
Abstract:
Middle ear (ME) benign tumors are rare, and among them is meningioma. An ME meningioma might be isolated or merely a lateral extension of a CPA meningioma. We report a case with presentation of ME effusion followed by the appearance of an aural polyp after repeated myringotomies. Computed tomography (CT) revealed a benign-looking ME and mastoid mass. After debulking and biopsy, it turned out to be a meningioma. However, when MRI was performed, a large CPA meningioma was detected. ME masses are rare; however, they might be encountered, and CT must be performed followed by biopsy or total removal. In case of detection of a tumor with probable intracranial connection as meningioma, an MRI should be performed to exclude intracranial extension.
Insights
Middle ear meningiomas are rare benign tumors. This case highlights the importance of imaging, like CT and MRI, to diagnose and rule out intracranial extension of these unusual ear masses.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Neurosurgery
- Pathology
Background:
- Benign middle ear (ME) tumors, including meningiomas, are uncommon.
- ME meningiomas can be isolated or extensions of cerebellopontine angle (CPA) meningiomas.

