Primary intraosseus cavernous hemangioma of the skull base

Abstract

Primary intraosseous cavernous hemangioma (PICH) of the skull is rare. We present a case of 11-year-old boy with PICH of the sphenoid bone. The Computed Tomogram showed a classical sunburst appearance. Safe excision as much as possible was attempted after embolization. The child however, succumbed to postoperative infection. The preferred treatment is complete tumor removal with normal bony margins. However, this may not be possible in extensive skull base involvement. Preoperative embolisation can reduce intraoperative blood loss. Radiotherapy may be added where complete excision is not possible.

Key words:

• Cavernous hemangioma
• skull base
• intraosseous tumor

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.