Metastasis of a spinal myxopapillary ependymoma into the internal auditorycanal

Ependymomas are usually benign tumors of the central nervous system that de rive from the ependymal cells lining liquor-filled spaces. Myxopapillary ep endymomas are a variant occurring almost exclusively in the region of the c auda equina. Histologically, these tumors are benign (WHO grade I). The following case describes the first reported spread of a spinal myxopapi llary ependymoma into the internal auditory canal. The symptoms and diagnos tic results are similar to other tumors of this location. There are no typi cal findings in the diagnostic imaging (CT, MRI). The extended middle crani al fossa approach was chosen for surgical treatment. Adjuvant radiotherapy is indicated in cases of incomplete resection or recurrence.