Bilateral Spontaneous Lateral Intrasphenoidal and Transethmoidal Meningoceles: A Rare Presentation of Idiopathic Intracranial Hypertension

Background: Basal meningoceles are rare herniations of the meninges that tend to present unilaterally with CSF rhinorrhea. Growing evidence suggests that intracranial hypertension contributes considerably to the formation of spontaneous basal meningoceles.

Case Presentation: We present a case of bilateral spontaneous meningoceles with bone defects in the left lateral sphenoid sinus and right anterior cribriform plate, as well as with a remodeled sella. A neuronavigation assisted expended endoscopic endonasal surgery was performed to resect the meningoceles. Postoperative imaging demonstrated complete resolution of the bilateral meningoceles.

Conclusion: This case reports the first bilateral basal spontaneous meningoceles in the literature. Furthermore, based on this case’s imaging results and the literature reviewed, elevated intracranial pressure may be a determining factor behind the development of spontaneous meningoceles.

No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).