Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue lymphoma of the dura mimicking meningioma: A case report.

Abstract

Background: Primary central nervous system lymphomas (PCNSLs) are relatively infrequent tumors and are usually high-grade and aggressive neoplasms. A small portion of PCNSLs are low-grade lymphomas and can involve the dura. Mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma of the dura is an extremely rare subtype with only case reports and series documented in the literature.

Case description: A 65-year-old woman presented with a history of headaches followed by progressive left hemiparesis. Imaging studies showed an extra-axial dural-based tumor causing midline shift. Gross total resection was achieved, and the patient was discharged without postoperative complications. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of MALT lymphoma of the dura. The patient was evaluated by the oncologist and received adjuvant chemotherapy. At the 10-month follow-up, the patient experienced remission of her symptoms, and the last magnetic resonance imaging showed no evidence of tumor recurrence.

Conclusion: MALT lymphoma of the dura diagnosis requires a high level of suspicion because it can often mimic meningioma. Given its rarity, there is no consensus on the standard treatment strategy. Gross total resection followed by adjuvant therapy is an accepted treatment to manage these cases.