Rare dorsal ossified meningioma in an elderly female: a case report and comprehensive review of literature

Abstract

Meningiomas, typically benign neoplasms originating in the central nervous system, display a predilection for female patients. Although they predominantly manifest within the cranial vault, ~25% of primary spinal neoplasms are attributed to these tumors. The occurrence of ossification in spinal meningiomas is an uncommon phenomenon, with scant documentation in medical literature. In this report, we detail the clinical journey of an octogenarian female patient afflicted with an ossified spinal meningioma, which was associated with left lower extremity weakness and reduced sensation. Diagnostic imaging, specifically magnetic resonance imaging, identified a mass exerting pressure on the spinal cord, necessitating its surgical removal. Subsequent histopathological examinations corroborated the initial diagnosis. Postoperative magnetic resonance imaging scans confirmed the absence of residual tumor tissue and ruled out recurrence. A comprehensive review of existing literature yielded 47 analogous cases, with a majority involving elderly female patients and the thoracic region of the spine being the most common site. The standard therapeutic approach is surgical intervention, which is often complicated by the tumor’s tenacious adherence to surrounding structures and the potential for ensuing operative complications. This case highlights the exceptional nature of ossified spinal meningiomas and emphasizes the critical need for meticulous surgical management.