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Cystic meningioma: neuroradiological (MRI, CT) and macroscopic intraoperative appearance. A case report
1Department of Neurological Sciences, University of Rome La Sapienza, Italy.
Abstract:
Differential diagnosis of intracranial cystic meningiomas may present difficulties in about 10-15% of cases where anatomo-pathological alterations such as intratumoral necrosis, cystic cavity, hemorrhage or lipomatous infiltration are present. These alterations are responsible for an unusual radiological appearance which may suggest a false diagnosis. We describe a case of meningioma with a cystic appearance in which MRI was more helpful than CT, because it suggested an extra-axial meningiomatous lesion and thus allowed more precise surgical planning.
Insights
Diagnosing cystic meningiomas can be challenging due to unusual radiological appearances. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) proved more effective than computed tomography (CT) in identifying this extra-axial lesion, aiding surgical planning.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Radiology
- Oncology
Background:
- Intracranial cystic meningiomas present diagnostic challenges in 10-15% of cases.
- Anatomo-pathological alterations like necrosis, hemorrhage, or lipomatous infiltration can cause unusual radiological appearances.
- These alterations may lead to misdiagnosis, complicating differential diagnosis.
Observation:
- A case of a meningioma with a cystic appearance is presented.
- The lesion exhibited an unusual radiological presentation.
- Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were utilized for diagnosis.
Findings:
- MRI provided superior diagnostic information compared to CT.
- MRI accurately suggested an extra-axial meningiomatous lesion.
- CT findings were less conclusive, potentially leading to misdiagnosis.
Implications:
- Accurate radiological diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment planning of intracranial tumors.
- MRI's ability to delineate complex cystic meningiomas aids in precise surgical planning.
- Understanding imaging characteristics of atypical meningiomas improves patient outcomes.