Metastatic prostate carcinoma mimicking meningioma: case report and review of the literature

Neurologist. 2006 Jan;12(1):48-52. doi: 10.1097/01.nrl.0000186809.04283.17.

Abstract

Background: Intracranial dural-based lesions can be due to benign or malignant processes. Imaging characteristics cannot always discern between different pathologic conditions. A thorough clinical evaluation may reveal likely diagnostic possibilities. However, in certain cases, the etiology of the underlying lesion may require biopsy or resection to appropriately treat the patient.

Review summary: We report the case of a large dural-based adenocarcinoma of the prostate clinically and radiographically mimicking a meningioma. We review the history and physical evaluation of the patient and subsequent treatment and response. We discuss the implications of dural-based intracranial lesions in patients with prostate cancer and review the literature of dural metastases, including the pathogenesis, tumor types, and clinical presentations.

Conclusion: The differential diagnosis of dural-based lesions in the brain varies from incidental and benign to symptomatic and malignant. Careful vigilance in patients with a history of cancer and presenting with new symptoms or imaging evidence of dural-based lesions is critically important to provide timely intervention.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Adenocarcinoma / diagnosis*
  • Adenocarcinoma / secondary*
  • Adenocarcinoma / therapy
  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnosis*
  • Brain Neoplasms / secondary*
  • Brain Neoplasms / therapy
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meningioma / diagnosis*
  • Middle Aged
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Prostatic Neoplasms / surgery