Extracranial and intracranial meningiomas

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Oncology
• Pathology

Background:

• Meningiomas are common primary intracranial tumors, typically affecting adults over 30.
• Extracranial extension of posterior fossa meningiomas is exceptionally rare, particularly in pediatric and adolescent populations.

Observation:

• A 17-year-old patient presented with a cervical mass originating from an intra- and extracranial meningioma.
• The tumor, arising from the posterior cranial fossa, demonstrated extensive invasion into the temporal bone, infratemporal fossa, and parapharyngeal region.

Findings:

• Complete two-stage surgical resection of the extensive meningioma was achieved with satisfactory outcomes.
• Literature review confirms the rarity of such extensive extracranial meningioma manifestations from the posterior fossa.

Implications:

• This case expands the understanding of meningioma behavior and potential for aggressive extracranial spread in younger patients.
• Highlights the importance of considering meningioma in the differential diagnosis of complex head and neck masses in adolescents.
• Emphasizes the feasibility of complete resection even in cases with significant extracranial involvement.