Primary angioleiomyoma in the sellar region: a case report and literature review

Abstract

Angioleiomyoma (vascular leiomyomas, angiomyoma) is a rare, benign soft tissue tumor which consists of a mixture of well-differentiated smooth muscle cells and thick-walled vessels. Here we report a case of angioleiomyoma in the sellar region, which is the first case report of angioleiomyoma at this anatomical location. A 53-year-old man was admitted with a medical history of three months episodic headache and one month visual deterioration, both of which progressed gradually. The neurological examination showed nothing remarkable except a slightly decreased adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) level. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging revealed a pituitary apoplexy. Gross total resection of the tumor was then performed. Histological and immunohistochemical studies showed a typical microscopic appearance of an angioleiomyoma present in a rather uncommon place. The pertinent literature regarding the features of this tumor was reviewed and discussed. Intracranial angioleiomyoma is a benign soft tissue tumor with excellent prognosis. Early diagnosis of this tumor is difficult.