Abstract

BACKGROUND: Intracranial chondroma is a rare benign tumor that more commonly arises from the skull base. Chondroma arising from the falx cerebri is very rare, with only 19 cases previously reported in the literature. The imaging characteristics of intracranial chondroma and meningioma can be similar. Surgical excision and histology are required for the diagnosis. This report is of a case of intracranial chondroma that includes the imaging findings. The methods of diagnosis, management, and prognosis are discussed.

CASE REPORT: A 44-year-old man presented with episodes of severe headache. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed a well-defined, extra-axial, parafalcine lesion in the right frontal region. An interhemispheric craniotomy was performed. A right frontal solid and calcified tumor attached to the falx cerebri was identified and removed. Histology confirmed the diagnosis of a benign chondroma containing areas of hemorrhage and cystic degeneration.

CONCLUSIONS: Chondroma arising in the falx cerebri is a rare intracranial tumor that may mimic meningiomas on imaging. Awareness of the varied imaging characteristics of these benign tumors is essential for planning the most appropriate treatment.

Keywords: Brain Neoplasms, chondroma, Hemorrhage, Adult, Craniotomy, Dura Mater, Frontal Lobe, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Meningeal Neoplasms