Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor within the spinal canal with apparent drop metastases

Abstract

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is a rare subtype of sarcoma that arises from cells associated with the peripheral nerve. It typically presents as an enlarging palpable mass, however, there are variable clinical presentations. MRI aids in detecting the tumor and/or potential metastases, and diagnosis is confirmed by biopsy. Surgical resection remains the mainstay of treatment, though adjuvant radiation therapy has become an integral component of local disease control. Primary MPNSTs have rarely been reported within the spinal canal, and drop metastases represent an exceedingly rare manifestation of this disease. Here we present a rare case of MPNST situated within the spinal canal with apparent multiple drop metastases. Keywords: Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor, Metastasis, Spinal canal