Epstein-Barr virus associated primary intracranial leiomyoma in organ transplant recipient: case report and review of the literature

Acta Neurochir (Wien). 2009 Dec;151(12):1705-9. doi: 10.1007/s00701-009-0307-4. Epub 2009 Apr 9.

Abstract

Introduction: A 45 year old female renal transplant recipient presented with headaches of 3 months duration. Clinical and radiological evaluation revealed an approximately 4x4 cm rounded, enhancing mass at the left temporal pole. At surgery, the mass had dural attachment and clinically, radiographically, and macroscopically resembled a meningioma. Histopathological analysis revealed a leiomyoma. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) DNA was demonstrated within the tumour cell nuclei by the in situ hybridisation technique.

Discussion: This is the first documentation of an EBV-associated primary intracranial leiomyoma in an organ transplant recipient and provides additional evidence of a possible relation between EBV infection and development of smooth-muscle tumours (SMT).

Conclusion: With increasing numbers of individuals being on long-term immuno-suppression, EBV-associated SMTs may be encountered more frequently in the future.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Brain Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Brain Neoplasms / surgery
  • Brain Neoplasms / virology*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / immunology
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / physiopathology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Immunocompromised Host
  • Immunosuppressive Agents / adverse effects
  • Leiomyoma / pathology*
  • Leiomyoma / surgery
  • Leiomyoma / virology*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neurosurgical Procedures
  • Organ Transplantation*
  • Treatment Outcome

Substances

  • Immunosuppressive Agents