Intracranial route of a cervical neuroblastoma through skull base foramina

Abstract

A case of primary cervical neuroblastoma gaining access to the cerebellopontine angle via direct perineural spread is described. MRI effectively delineated soft tissues, while CT demonstrated tumor calcifications and the integrity of adjacent bones. Both imaging modalities were beneficial in predicting the unique histology and pattern of disease confirmed at surgery.

Localized cervical neuroblastoma: prevention of surgical complications

“…In the cervical region, NB develops posterior to the vascular sheet displacing the carotid artery and jugular vein anteriorly [12]. The tumor may invade the cranial nerves IX-XII, and extend to the base of the skull through the jugular and lacerum foramina [13]. Invasion through the intervertebral foramina is exceptional and usually occurs for NB in the cervicothoracic localization [14].…”

Radiology of neuroblastoma in children

“…There is also a reported case of cervical neuroblastoma extending through the foramen lacerum [9] to gain access to the cerebello-pontine angle.…”