Challenges in the Management of Recurrent CNS Solitary Fibrous Tumors: A Case Report

Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) of the central nervous system (CNS) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms with diverse histological characteristics ranging from benign to malignant. Their higher chance for metastasis and recurrence poses significant diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. In this study, we present a 53-year-old female with a recurrent SFT of the cervical spine that was diagnosed initially 12 years ago. The patient underwent repeated surgical resections including laminectomy and gamma knife radiosurgery, as well as temozolomide, bevacizumab, and pazopanib therapy. Despite these interventions, she experienced continuous disease progression, with the cancer spreading to vital CNS locations. This study demonstrates the locally invasive nature of CNS SFTs and their complicated treatments involving surgical excision, radiotherapy, and systemic chemotherapy. This study highlights the need for new therapeutic approaches, as the existing methods fall short in meeting all the requirements and continue to lag in targeted therapy research for CNS SFTs. Consequently, it is important to develop individualized treatment strategies for patients affected by such difficult conditions.