Primary Melanocytoma of the Lower Thoracic Spinal Cord: Case report and review of the literature

Abstract

Background: Meningeal melanocytoma is a rare benign tumor, most frequently located in the posterior fossa and spinal canal. Our objective is to illustrate a case of this tumor that originated in the thoracolumbar area of the spine and had an uneventful clinical course after total resection. Case description: We present the case of a 59 years old woman who presented with a medical history of ongoing neurological deterioration due to spastic paresis of the lower extremities. MRI of the thoracolumbar region identified a melanocytic melanoma as the underlying cause. Conclusions: Melanocytic tumors of the central nervous system have a typical appearance on MRI scans, varying with the content and distribution of melanin. However, the differential diagnosis between malignant melanoma and melanocytoma still depends on pathological criteria. Spinal meningeal melanocytoma has a benign course, and it is amenable for gross total resection. The outcome is favorable following complete resection.