Rare Case of Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma in Pediatric Patient Successfully Treated with Endoscopic Endonasal Surgery

A team of researchers from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, has reported a rare case of optic nerve sheath meningioma (ONSM) in a pediatric patient. The study highlights the effectiveness of endoscopic endonasal surgery in treating this condition, particularly in young patients with quickly advancing symptoms.

Key Takeaways:

  • The patient, a juvenile, presented with proptosis and progressive one-sided vision loss, which was indicative of an intraorbital lesion.
  • Radiological imaging showed an optic nerve sheath meningioma (ONSM), a rare condition that affects the optic nerve.
  • The surgical team used an endoscopic endonasal method to excise the tumor, providing optimal exposure and decompression while minimizing morbidity.
  • The patient experienced visual improvement post-surgery, and the postoperative period was quiet, with no complications.
  • This study contributes to the limited research on pediatric ONSM and highlights the value of endoscopic endonasal surgery in this population.
  • Radiation therapy remains the standard treatment for adult ONSMs, but this study suggests that endoscopic endonasal surgery is a feasible and efficient therapy choice for children with ONSM.
  • Early diagnosis and tailored surgical planning are crucial for favorable outcomes in pediatric patients with ONSM.

Statistics:

  • According to the study, the patient's vision improved significantly post-surgery, with no complications reported during the postoperative period.
  • The study indicates that endoscopic endonasal surgery provides better access to the medial orbit with minimal morbidity compared to conventional treatments.
  • The study concludes that early diagnosis and tailored surgical planning are essential for favorable outcomes in pediatric patients with ONSM.

Sources:

  • A Rare Case of Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma in a Pediatric Patient: Diagnosis and Endoscopic Endonasal Surgical Management. Journal of Pharmacy and Bioallied Sciences, 2025;17(2):97-99.
  • NewsRx. New Findings from Sree Balaji Medical College and Hospital in the Area of Meningeal Neoplasms Reported (A Rare Case of Optic Nerve Sheath Meningioma in a Pediatric Patient: Diagnosis and Endoscopic Endonasal Surgical Management). Pediatrics Week. September 20, 2025; p 1451.