High-dose radiation-induced meningioma in children. Case report and critical review of the literature

Object

High-dose radiation-induced meningiomas in children are a rare occurrence. We discuss the clinical data and the differences of these rare tumors from those of spontaneous counterpart and radiation-induced meningiomas of the adult population.

Case report

We report a case of meningothelial meningioma, which occurred in a 9-year-old boy who underwent radiotherapy for a parieto-occipital cutaneous angioma. In addition, we collected 18 cases of high-dose radiation-induced meningiomas in children from a literature review with Medline.

Results

Radiation-induced meningiomas in children show a female predominance, a short latency period that seems to be related to the age at irradiation, and an aggressive behaviour.

Conclusion

Exposure to the potentially carcinogenic effects of radiotherapy should be reserved only for tumors that demonstrate subsequent progression. A meticulous follow-up of patients treated with radiation therapy is mandatory.