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Published on: January 17, 2018
Cytological features of ectopic nasal meningioma. Report of a case diagnosed using FNAC
Durre Aden1, Sufian Zaheer1, Sunil Ranga1
1Department of Pathology, Vardhman Mahavir Medical College and Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi, India.
Abstract:
We describe a case of primary extracranial meningioma of the nasal cavity. FNAC showed loose clusters of epithelioid cells with splayed cytoplasm, focal whorling, and occasional psammoma bodies suggestive of meningioma. This case highlights the importance of FNAC in diagnosing meningioma when encountering similar morphology at a rare location.
Insights
This case study details a rare nasal cavity meningioma diagnosed via fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC). FNAC findings were crucial for identifying this extracranial meningioma in an unusual location.
Area of Science:
- Pathology
- Oncology
- Otorhinolaryngology
Background:
- Meningiomas are typically intracranial tumors arising from meningothelial cells.
- Primary extracranial meningiomas are rare, with nasal cavity involvement being exceptionally uncommon.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a rare case of primary extracranial meningioma originating in the nasal cavity.
- To emphasize the diagnostic utility of fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) in identifying meningiomas at rare extraneural sites.
Main Methods:
- A case of nasal cavity mass was investigated.
- Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) was performed.
- Cytological features were analyzed for diagnostic clues.
Main Results:
- FNAC revealed characteristic features of meningioma, including loose clusters of epithelioid cells with splayed cytoplasm.
- Focal whorling and occasional psammoma bodies were observed, supporting the diagnosis.
- These findings were consistent with a primary extracranial meningioma of the nasal cavity.
Conclusions:
- Primary extracranial meningioma of the nasal cavity is a rare entity.
- FNAC is a valuable tool for the initial diagnosis of meningiomas, even in unusual extraneural locations.
- Recognition of characteristic cytomorphology is key for accurate diagnosis.

