Entirely Extradural Meningioma in the Cervical Spine: A Case Report and Literature Overview

TL;DR

A rare extradural meningioma in the cervical spine was successfully treated with surgery, leading to quick recovery.

Contribution

This case report highlights the diagnostic and surgical challenges of extradural meningiomas in the cervical spine.

Findings

The patient had a crescent-shaped extradural meningioma from C3 to C6 with foraminal extension.

Surgical resection led to rapid symptom resolution and functional recovery.

The case underscores the importance of recognizing extradural meningiomas for proper management.

Abstract

Entirely extradural meningiomas of the cervical spine are exceptionally rare lesions arising from displaced arachnoid cells outside the dural sac. They typically present with neck pain, radicular symptoms, and myelopathic signs due to mass effect on the spinal cord. Imaging often reveals a well-defined, homogeneously enhancing epidural mass that may extend through the intervertebral foramina, mimicking more common lesions such as nerve sheath tumors or metastases. Here, we report a case of a crescent-shaped lesion encircling the right side of the cervical cord from C3 to C6, with foraminal extension at C4-C6. Surgical exploration via posterior laminectomy allowed for gross total resection, and histopathology confirmed a benign meningioma. The foraminal involvement highlighted the anatomical complexity of such lesions, which may at times necessitate subtotal resection to preserve neural structures. The patient’s postoperative course was notable for rapid symptom resolution and excellent functional recovery. Recognition of this entity is crucial for accurate diagnosis and optimal surgical management.

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