Giant Thoracic Meningioma: Missed Diagnosis and Challenging Management in a Resource-Limited Setting

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Authors: Gerald Musa, Aaron Munkondya, Lukulula. E. Mwanza, Sandford Sumaili, Mwaba Nambela, Davies Chiwaya, Chifundo Daka, Kabongo Ngoy, Keith Simfukwe, Misa Funjika, Carlos Castillo-Rangel, Gervith Reyes Soto
+3 more Manuel De Jesus Encarnación Ramírez, Nicola Montemurro, Justo Banda
Cited by: 0
References: 19

Abstract

Intradural extramedullary spinal tumors are surgically treatable lesions, but delayed diagnosis, particularly in low-resource settings, can result in irreversible neurological deficits. We present a case of a 37-year-old woman with a five-year history of progressive paraplegia due to a thoracic T4-T5 intradural extramedullary tumor, whose diagnosis and management were significantly delayed due to system-level limitations. This case illustrates the severe consequences of missed or delayed diagnosis of surgically treatable spinal tumors in resource-limited settings. Early MRI interpretation by trained specialists, timely neurosurgical referral, and availability of surgical adjuncts such as dural sealants are essential to prevent avoidable morbidity.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Meningioma and schwannoma management Neurosurgical Procedures and Complications Spinal Dysraphism and Malformations

Publication details

Journal / source
Cureus
Volume
18
Issue
2
Pages
e104315–e104315
Publication date
26 February 2026
Language
EN