Ectopic meningioma presenting as a neck mass: case report and review of literature

Background Ectopic meningiomas are rare neoplasms that occur entirely outside the intracranial and intraspinal cavities and account for only 1–2% of all meningiomas. These tumors have been reported at various sites, however they are predominantly observed in the head and neck region. Here, we detail a case of an adult diagnosed with ectopic meningioma of the neck. Case presentation A 26-year-old woman underwent evaluation for a neck swelling associated with difficult in swallowing. Clinical examination revealed a firm, non-tender and non-pulsatile swelling in the right side of neck. On imaging, a soft tissue mass lesion was seen involving the right supra-hyoid neck, centered at the right carotid space/retro-styloid parapharyngeal space. She underwent maximal safe resection of the tumor and a consensus was reached regarding the diagnosis of ectopic meningioma based on the histopathological, clinical and radiological findings. Relevant literature is reviewed. Conclusions The diagnosis of ectopic meningioma may pose difficulties due to their occurrence in uncommon sites. The primary approach to treatment entails the surgical removal of the neoplasm, and a multidisciplinary strategy is pivotal for achieving the best possible clinical outcomes for patients with this rare entity.