Foramen magnum meningioma presented as cervical myelopathy in a pregnant COVID-19 patient: A case report

Highlights

• COVID-19 causes hyperinflammatory state which could lead to tumor progression.

• There is increase of cytokine expression in meningioma as well as in Covid-19 infection.

• Further investigation needed to find if there is molecular link between Covid-19 and meningioma disease course.

Abstract

Introduction

Meningioma is the second most common primary brain tumor. There are approximately 5.6 cases of meningioma per 100,000 pregnant women. Foramen magnum meningioma is rare, and the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis are complex in pregnant women.

Case presentation

Herein, we report a case of foramen magnum meningioma in a pregnant woman at 32 weeks of gestation, who presented with chronic neck pain and cervical myelopathy. She tested positive for COVID-19 infection. Magnetic resonance imaging findings were compatible with foramen magnum meningioma, and the pathologic analysis revealed a WHO grade-I meningioma. The patient underwent cesarean section followed by tumor excision due to fetal distress and rapid deterioration.

Clinical discussion

Management of meningioma during pregnancy requires a multidisciplinary approach. No guidelines for surgical intervention, timing of pregnancy termination, or mode of delivery for pregnant patients with foramen magnum meningioma have been established. While it is best to prolong the pregnancy for as long as possible, a cesarean delivery is preferred to avoid increased intracranial pressure. Operative management of meningioma is warranted if the tumor is growing or symptomatic. This patient died due to the added complication of COVID-19. Although the prognosis of foramen magnum meningioma is usually favorable, COVID-19 comorbidity can increase illness severity.

Conclusion

Maternal and fetal health status must be evaluated to decide whether surgical excision and pregnancy termination are needed. In this case, COVID-19 infection and meningioma disease course required further investigation.