Staged transcrusal and transsphenoidal endoscopic resection of an atypical clival melanoma: A case report and literature review

Abstract

We present a case of an atypical clival meningeal melanoma treated with a multidisciplinary staged transcrusal and transsphenoidal endoscopic surgical approach. A 45-year-old woman presented with a 15-month history of visual symptoms, neck pain, and unsteadiness. Magnetic resonance imaging of the head revealed a clival mass with both intracranial and extracranial involvement. Endoscopic clival biopsy suggested a melanocytic tumor. Extensive imaging and dermatological workup did not demonstrate a primary source. A multidisciplinary staged surgical resection included a transcrusal approach to resect the intracranial component, followed by transsphenoidal endoscopic resection of the extracranial component. Postoperatively, she received adjuvant radiation. At 1 year following surgery, the patient retains full preservation of hearing, facial nerve function, and extraocular movements. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of a combined surgical approach for a primary clival meningitic melanoma. Copyright © 2010 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc.