Pseudotumor-like syndrome and cerebrospinal fluid leak in meningiomas involving the posterior third of the superior sagittal sinus: report of 4 cases

J Neurosurg. 2016 Jul;125(1):62-6. doi: 10.3171/2015.7.JNS15770. Epub 2015 Dec 18.

Abstract

Meningiomas that partially or completely occlude the superior sagittal sinus may create a pseudotumor-like syndrome in certain patients. These patients may have impaired CSF absorption as a result of higher proximal venous pressure. Higher pressures after resection may encumber adequate wound healing and worsen symptoms. Here, the authors present a small series of patients with meningiomas involving the posterior third of the superior sagittal sinus, with documented high intracranial pressure prior to surgery. This paper aims to address the proposed etiology of high intracranial pressure in these patients and its associated complications, including CSF leak, wound dehiscence, pressure-related headaches, and visual complaints. In this paper, the authors propose a management plan to avoid wound complications and pseudotumor-related complications. When considering surgical intervention for patients with compromise of the posterior third of the superior sagittal sinus, careful attention must be paid to addressing potentially elevated intracranial pressure perioperatively.

Keywords: ICP = intracranial pressure; SSS = superior sagittal sinus; complications; meningioma; oncology; pseudotumor; superior sagittal sinus.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cerebrospinal Fluid Leak / etiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intracranial Hypertension / etiology*
  • Male
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / surgery
  • Meningioma / diagnostic imaging
  • Meningioma / pathology*
  • Meningioma / surgery
  • Middle Aged
  • Superior Sagittal Sinus / pathology*