Intradural metastasis mimicking nerve sheath tumor.
METHODS
This is a case report.


OBJECTIVE
This is an unusual case of a 69 year-old man with metastatic carcinoma to the C8 and T1 intradural roots, with extension through the intervertebral foramen of C7-T1 mimicking a nerve sheath tumor clinically and radiologically. This report reviews the clinical features, radiology, pathology, and pathogenesis of these metastatic lesions.


BACKGROUND
Nerve sheath tumors are the most common primary spinal tumors. In contrast, metastasis to the spinal nerve roots is very rare. Metastatic tumors may clinically simulate other diseases and, as in this case, a nerve sheath tumor.


METHODS
A review and discussion of the case facts are presented.


RESULTS
Metastatic carcinoma to C8 and T1 nerve roots was diagnosed intraoperatively during C7-T1 laminectomy and partial tumor debulking. The patient had a satisfactory recovery, with symptomatic relief of painful radiculopathy, but with no improvement in motor strength.


CONCLUSIONS
Metastasis to spinal nerve roots can clinically mimic other diseases. As in this case, the proper diagnosis may be possible only at surgery.
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Division of Neurosurgery, Toronto Western Division, Toronto Hospital, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Fehlings
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MG
D000368:Aged; D002574:Cervical Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D003937:Diagnosis, Differential; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009192:Myelography; D018317:Nerve Sheath Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis*; D013125:Spinal Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000556:secondary* / Q000601:surgery; D013126:Spinal Nerve Roots / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology / Q000601:surgery; D013904:Thoracic Vertebrae / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000473:pathology; D015431:Weight Loss