Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis: Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment

Parker NA, Dilling M and Lalich D

Department of Internal Medicine, University of Kansas School of Medicine, USA Department of Diagnostic Radiology, Kansas City University of Medicine and Biosciences, USA Department of Anatomical and Clinical Pathology, Wesley Medical Center, USA

^*Correspondance to: Parker NA 

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Abstract:

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis occurs in approximately 3% to 5% of all cancer patients. Leptomeningeal metastasis from primary breast cancer is the most common etiology for all leptomeningeal diseases. Triple-negative breast cancer has significantly higher metastasis rates and a poorer prognosis compared to hormone-positive breast cancer. Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis is often difficult to diagnosis and can affect any level of the central nervous system. Imaging and CSF analysis often allows for the diagnosis of leptomeningeal diseases. However, once leptomeningeal metastasis is confirmed prognosis is often poor and treatment options remain limited. This case report and literature review is meant to highlight an uncommon late-stage complication of breast cancer because early diagnosis and treatment significantly impacts morbidity and mortality.

Keywords:

Leptomeningeal carcinomatosis; Leptomeningeal metastasis; Triple-negative breast cancer

Cite the Article:

Parker NA, Dilling Mm, Lalich D. Leptomeningeal Carcinomatosis: Challenges in Diagnosis and Treatment. Ann Clin Case Rep. 2020; 5: 1837. ISSN: 2474-1655.