Multifocal meningeal melanocytoma: a new pathological entity or the result of leptomeningeal seeding?

J Neurosurg. 2009 Sep;111(3):488-91. doi: 10.3171/2009.3.JNS081096.

Abstract

Meningeal melanocytoma is a rare benign CNS tumor derived from the leptomeningeal melanocytes. Although unusual, malignant transformation with leptomeningeal seeding into the brain or spinal cord may occur years after the initial diagnosis. The authors report a unique case of multifocal benign meningeal melanocytoma involving both cerebellopontine angles and the thoracic spinal cord, with associated diffuse leptomeningeal hyperpigmentation. They review the literature relevant to this topic and discuss the radiological and pathological features of this disease as well as its treatment options.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cerebellar Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Cerebellopontine Angle*
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging
  • Male
  • Melanocytes / pathology*
  • Melanoma / pathology*
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Neoplasm Seeding*
  • Spinal Cord Neoplasms / pathology*