# Neuroendocrine Tumor of the Cauda Equina: A Report of a Rare Case With Histopathological and Immunohistochemical Correlation

## TL;DR

A rare case of a neuroendocrine tumor in the cauda equina is reported, highlighting its diagnosis and successful surgical treatment.

## Contribution

This case report adds to the limited literature on neuroendocrine tumors of the cauda equina and emphasizes diagnostic approaches.

## Key findings

- A 29-year-old male presented with chronic lumbar pain and was diagnosed with a neuroendocrine tumor.
- Surgical resection led to rapid symptom resolution and confirmed the diagnosis via histopathology and immunohistochemistry.
- The case highlights the importance of differential diagnosis to distinguish from similar spinal tumors.

## Abstract

Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) of the cauda equina are rare, generally benign neoplasms. Previously known as paragangliomas, they were renamed as neuroendocrine tumors in the 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) classification of neuroendocrine neoplasms. These tumors typically occur in adults; however, cases have been reported in nearly all age groups.

This report describes the case of a 29-year-old male patient with chronic lumbar pain and bilateral radicular neuropathic pain. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings described an extramedullary intradural lesion at the level of L1-L2. Surgical resection was performed, resulting in rapid symptom resolution.

Clinical presentation and imaging findings are often nonspecific; therefore, definitive diagnosis relies on histopathological examination and immunohistochemical analysis. The main differential diagnoses include ependymoma, schwannoma, meningioma, and hemangioblastoma.

NET of the cauda equina is a rare entity, with only a few cases reported in the literature; therefore, this case report serves as a guide to establish a diagnosis and its possible surgical management for future patients.