Adenoid cystic carcinoma with striking intracranial extension: a case report

We report a case of intracranial adenoid cystic carcinoma in the middle cranial fossa. A 40-year-old woman had noticed a tumor in the left external auditory canal 8 years previously. It was totally resected at that time. Histologically, the tumor was diagnosed as an adenoid cystic carcinoma. Recently the patient presented with loss of consciousness, suffering from mild recent-memory disturbance. Neurological examination revealed no other abnormalities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) demonstrated an enhanced solid mass with a multicystic component in the left temporal lobe. She underwent subtotal removal of the tumor. It was well-demarcated, and was confirmed to be adhesive to the dura matter of the middle cranial fossa. Histology of the tumor was the same as it was 8 years ago. She was discharged from our hospital without neurological deficits. Two months after surgery, gamma knife radiosurgery was performed against the residual tumor.