Meningeal infiltration in recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma.
Permeative infiltration of the meninges appears to be a distinct form of recurrent nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). The present report of eight patients with recurrent NPC illustrates meningeal infiltration following basal foramina extension. Seven of the eight patients (88%) showed jugular foramen involvement. Three patients had concomitant infiltration of the foramen magnum. There was one patient showing spread through the foramen lacerum. Only four (50%) of these patients had clinically detectable tumour in the nasopharynx, while the other half showed deep submucosal recurrence with endoscopically unremarkable findings. Permeative meningeal infiltration appears to be a distinct form of NPC recurrence. It is important to recognize this phenomenon so as to optimize the treatment options.
Chong
V F
VF
Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore. vfhchong@pacific.net.sg
Fan
Y F
YF
D000328:Adult; D003287:Contrast Media; D005260:Female; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D008297:Male; D008577:Meningeal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D009303:Nasopharyngeal Neoplasms / Q000473:pathology*; D009305:Nasopharynx / Q000473:pathology; D009364:Neoplasm Recurrence, Local / Q000473:pathology*
D003287:Contrast Media; D019786:Gadolinium DTPA