A case of rhabdoid meningioma originating from the optic nerve

Jing Liu1, Ziling Yan1, Fan Lin2

  • 1Department of Pathology, Shenzhen Second People's Hospital, Shenzhen University 1st Affiliated Hospital, Shenzhen, China.

Insights

This study details a rare rhabdoid meningioma (RM) of the optic nerve, characterized by BAP1 mutations. Despite low-grade histology, its rapid progression highlights the need for increased awareness and diagnostic vigilance.

Area of Science:

  • Neuropathology
  • Oncology
  • Ophthalmology

Background:

  • Optic nerve meningiomas typically arise from meningothelial cells and are usually benign.
  • Rhabdoid meningiomas (RM) are rare, aggressive tumors with distinct histological features.
  • BAP1 mutations are increasingly recognized in various tumor types, including meningiomas.

Observation:

  • A rare case of rhabdoid meningioma (RM) was identified originating from the optic nerve in a 57-year-old female.
  • The tumor displayed rhabdoid/epithelioid histology and harbored BAP1 inactivation mutations.
  • Histological grading was World Health Organization (WHO) central nervous system (CNS) grade 1, with no CDKN2A/B homozygous deletions or TERT promoter mutations.

Findings:

  • This is the first reported instance of a rhabdoid meningioma involving the optic nerve.
  • Despite WHO grade 1 classification, the tumor demonstrated rapid recurrence and progression.
  • Genetic analysis revealed BAP1 inactivation as a key mutation.

Implications:

  • This case underscores the potential for aggressive behavior in morphologically low-grade meningiomas with specific genetic alterations.
  • Increased awareness among pathologists is crucial to prevent misdiagnosis and ensure appropriate management of optic nerve RM.
  • Further research into the molecular mechanisms driving RM progression is warranted to improve patient outcomes.

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