# Massive Foramen Magnum Meningioma Mimicking a Stroke

## TL;DR

A rare brain tumor at the base of the skull mimicked stroke symptoms in a patient, highlighting the need for accurate diagnosis.

## Contribution

The paper presents a novel case of a foramen magnum meningioma presenting with sudden-onset hemianesthesia, mimicking stroke.

## Key findings

- A 50-year-old female presented with sudden left-sided numbness due to a foramen magnum meningioma.
- Symptoms resolved after surgical intervention, confirming the tumor as the cause.
- The case emphasizes the importance of considering FMM in differential diagnoses of sudden neurological symptoms.

## Abstract

Foramen magnum meningiomas (FMMs) are skull base tumors that arise from the arachnoid layer of the meninges at the cranio-cervical junction. They typically present gradually, with symptoms ranging from asymmetric, progressive quadriparesis and sensory impairment to involvement of the lower cranial nerves. We report a case of a 50-year-old Asian female who presented with sudden-onset left-sided numbness. Neurologic examination revealed hemisensory loss over her left extremities. Imaging studies showed a meningioma within the spinal canal at the level of C1-C2. She underwent surgical intervention, and there was resolution of the symptoms upon discharge.

This case highlights the importance of recognizing atypical manifestations of FMM, such as a sudden-onset hemianesthesia, mimicking a stroke.