Multifocal clear cell meningioma in the spine: a case report

Clear cell meningioma is a rare morphologic form of meningioma. This case report describes a very rare case of multifocal clear cell meningioma in the thoracic and lumbar spine. A 9 year old patient presented with back pain and popliteal pain, which were aggravated by trunk motion and knocking. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suggested a meningioma at the L2 level. An intradural extramedural tumor attached to the cauda equina was surgically removed and pathological diagnosis was clear cell meningioma. The patient began to complain of back pain at the Th12 level 4 months postoperatively. Retrospective analysis of MRI before the first operation revealed the small tumors at Th12 and L5 levels; comparison with a new MRI showed the rapid growth in 4 months. Adjunctive surgical resection was carried out and the back pain disappeared. These tumors had the same pathological findings. In conclusion, in young patients with suggested meningioma in the lumar spine, clear cell meningioma should also be considered, and the possibility of multifocal occurrence and postoperative recurrence must be taken into account.