Multifocal Intradural Extramedullary Anaplastic Ependymoma With Intracranial Involvement at Presentation: A Case Report

Ependymomas are a rare malignant neoplasm. Multifocal intradural extramedullary anaplastic ependymomas are even more of a rare entity with much of the current knowledge derived from case reports. We presented a case of a multifocal intradural extramedullary anaplastic ependymoma with intracranial involvement at presentation.

A 53-year-old male presented with urinary symptoms. Magnetic resonance imaging revealed two lesions along the spinal cord and two lesions, intracranially. Histopathological examination was consistent with the World Health Organization grade III anaplastic ependymoma. The patient was treated with the gross total resections of spinal cord lesions, followed by radiation therapy to the resection cavities and intracranial lesions. At the 10-month follow-up visit, he reported almost complete resolution of symptoms, and magnetic resonance imaging revealed no recurrence.

Despite their rarity, ependymomas should be considered as the differential diagnosis when evaluating spinal tumors. Gross total resection followed by targeted radiotherapy appears to be an effective treatment modality for high-grade lesions.