High Grade Astrocytoma with Spontaneous Meningeal and Cranial Invasion

Abstract

Unusual features of a Grade IV cerebral astrocytoma (glioblastoma) are presented; infiltration of the dura mater and destruction of the overlying calvarium. The meningeal fibroblastic reaction and the blood supply recruitment of the tumor from the external carotid system are also described. The literature dealing with biologically “aggressive” tumors of the glial series displaying direct invasion of the cranial extraneural structures is summarized.

Cerebral astrocytoma, Craniotomy, Dura mater, External carotid system, Glioblastoma, Meninx, Osteolysis