• Journal of Korean Neurosurgical Society
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• v.29 no.1
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• pp.44-50
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• 2000

Objective : A few anecdotal cases of mesenchyme-derived tumors which grow into a cranial cavity have been reported that disclosed a dismal prognosis, due to their critical location, aggressive biological behavior, and high rate of surgical morbidity. The aim of this study is to search clinical factors related to these tumors. Methods : Eight patients who underwent surgical removal of intracranial mesenchymal tumors between January 1993 and December 1997 were studied retrospectively. The tumors included are three chordomas, two chondrosarcomas, two rhabdomyosarcomas, and one hemangiopericytoma. Authors compared clinical features, treatment, and results of our cases with reported cases. The mean follow-up period was 20.5 months. Results : All cases showed nonspecific, location-related clinical findings and arose from sphenopetroclival region. Single stage operation was performed in 4 cases, and skull base approaches in 3 cases. Adjuvant therapies were done in 2 cases. Recurrence was seen in 3 cases(37.5%), and 3 patients died. Interdisciplinary approach with otologic surgeon was done in 2 cases. Conclusion : Recent advancement of refined tactics has made these tumors amenable and provides prolongation of progression-free survival. These are modified skull base approaches, multi-modality treatment options, and inter-disciplinary team approaches. Good results may be expected for these mesenchymal tumors by aggressive resection and adjuvant therapies according to their biological nature.