Simultaneously occurring tumors with acoustic schwannomas without phakomatoses – A case series of nine patients and review of literature

Abstract

Introduction: Primary brain tumors of different histological types developing spontaneously together is a rare event; the incidence being 0.3% of all brain tumors. Acoustic schwannomas form the majority (about 70%–80%) of all cerebellopontine angle tumors. The most common association found is meningioma and acoustic schwannoma occurring in the same cerebellopontine angle region. Excluding phakomatoses, other neurocutaneous syndromes, and previous irradiation; the simultaneous occurrence of different primary brain tumors with acoustic schwannoma is rare. Methodology: We report the largest single institute case series, 9 patients of simultaneously occurring primary tumors with acoustic schwannomas over the last 25 years (1990–2015). All these patients were operated for both the tumors. The classification, pathogenesis, and surgical strategy of such tumors are discussed in light of current literature. Results: There were five males and four females in the study population aged from 30-60 years. There were five patients with spatially distant co-existing tumors. Transient facial paresis was noticed in three patients. They had significant improvement within six months. Conclusion: Simultaneously occurring tumors need appropriate planning and surgical strategy for ensuring good outcome and long-term prognosis.