Expression of IL-6 and matrix metalloproteinases in a convexity meningiomas with hyperostosis: Case report

Abstract

Meningiomas are usually benign but can extend to their surroundings, infiltrating skeletal and brain structures. Skull invasion by meningiomas could be associated with adverse outcomes, including progression and recurrence. The molecular mechanisms regulating the invasive potential of these tumors are not well characterized. Here, we describe the clinical, imaging, and neuropsychological characteristics of a patient with a convexity fibrous meningioma invading the skull. Furthermore, we analyzed the tumoral expression of some molecular factors potentially implicated in bone invasion using immunohistochemistry. Our analysis reveals high expression of matrix metalloproteinase 1 (MMP-1), MMP-2, MMP-9, and interleukin 6 (IL-6) in the resected meningioma. Importantly, little brain expression of these factors was detected in public human tissue gene expression databases, nor a meningioma without hyperostosis that served as a control. Our study suggests a possible role for IL-6 and matrix-metalloproteinases in bone invasion by meningiomas that must be validated in larger cohorts.

Keywords

• Convexity meningiomas
• Bone invasion
• Hyperostosis
• Matrix metalloproteinases
• IL-6