From the Research
Petroclival meningiomas account for approximately 3-10% of all intracranial meningiomas. These rare tumors arise from the meninges at the junction of the petrous bone and clivus at the skull base. Their location deep within the skull makes them particularly challenging to treat surgically due to their proximity to critical neurovascular structures including cranial nerves, brainstem, and major blood vessels. The relatively low percentage reflects their uncommon occurrence compared to more frequently encountered meningioma locations such as the convexity, falx, or sphenoid wing.
The exact incidence varies somewhat across different epidemiological studies, which explains the range in reported percentages, as seen in studies such as 1 and 2. However, the most recent and highest quality study, 3, provides the most reliable estimate of the percentage of petroclival meningiomas. These tumors typically present with symptoms related to cranial nerve compression, brainstem compression, or increased intracranial pressure, often requiring a multidisciplinary approach to treatment involving neurosurgery, radiation oncology, and sometimes endovascular techniques.
Some key points to consider when evaluating petroclival meningiomas include:
- Their location and proximity to critical neurovascular structures
- The potential for surgical complications, as discussed in 4 and 5
- The role of stereotactic radiosurgery in treatment, as evaluated in 3
- The importance of a multidisciplinary approach to treatment, involving neurosurgery, radiation oncology, and sometimes endovascular techniques.
Overall, the management of petroclival meningiomas requires careful consideration of the potential risks and benefits of different treatment approaches, as well as the individual patient's specific needs and circumstances.