Recurrent exophytic meningioma in pregnancy.

BACKGROUND

Meningiomas are slow-growing tumors that may present in pregnancy because of accelerated growth. We present the case of a recurrent meningioma in two separate pregnancies in the same woman.

METHODS

A 35-year-old woman presented at 30 weeks of gestation with limb weakness, vomiting, and a progressive decreased level of consciousness with an enlarging forehead mass. Imaging revealed a massive extra-axial exophytic tumor. An emergency craniotomy was performed, complicated by massive blood loss. Final pathology showed a grade I meningioma positive for progesterone receptors. Maternal-fetal outcome was good, with return of normal neurologic status and elective delivery at 38 weeks of gestation.

CONCLUSIONS

Pregnancy is associated with accelerated meningioma growth and recurrence. Treatment during pregnancy is possible and requires a multidisciplinary approach.