Clinical Report: Large Communicating Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Temporal Skull Base
Overview
This case study presents a 76-year-old man with a rare giant communicating solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) affecting the temporal skull base and infratemporal fossa. The tumor was resected, and follow-up imaging was performed at 22 months.
Background
Solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) are rare mesenchymal neoplasms that can occur in various locations, including the central nervous system. Their occurrence in the skull base and infratemporal fossa is particularly uncommon, presenting significant diagnostic and surgical challenges. Accurate diagnosis and effective management are crucial due to the potential for aggressive behavior and complications associated with these tumors.
Data Highlights
Measurement
Value
Lesion Size
74 × 61 mm
Ki-67 Labeling Index
Approximately 5%
Mitotic Figures
1–2 per 10 high-power fields
Key Findings
The patient presented with over 3 years of intermittent headache and dizziness.
Magnetic resonance imaging revealed a strongly enhancing lesion extending from the temporal skull base into the infratemporal fossa.
Histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of a World Health Organization grade 1 solitary fibrous tumor.
The tumor exhibited nuclear STAT6 positivity, supporting its classification as SFT.
The postoperative course was uneventful, with symptom improvement and no recurrence at 22 months follow-up.
Clinical Implications
Accurate diagnosis and effective management are crucial due to the potential for aggressive behavior and complications associated with solitary fibrous tumors.
Conclusion
The successful management of this rare giant communicating SFT highlights the need for careful diagnostic evaluation and a collaborative surgical approach to optimize patient outcomes.
