Renal Cell Carcinoma with Primary Presentation via Metastasis to the Trigeminal Ganglion

Background Renal cell carcinoma (RCC) accounts for ∼8% of all brain metastatic disease; however, spread to the cranial nerves and their ganglia is uncommon. To the best of our knowledge, we report the first case of RCC metastatic to Meckel's cave, which was diagnosed secondary to new trigeminal sensory loss. Methods A 45-year-old man had presented with acute-onset right V3 numbness. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated contrast enhancement of the ipsilateral V3, extending from its root at the Gasserian ganglion to the foramen ovale. Results He elected for observation, and his symptoms resolved over several weeks. At the scheduled, routine 3-month follow-up examination, he reported symptomatic relapse with new concomitant hyperesthetic/neuropathic pain. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated interval enlargement of the enhancing lesion in an atypical pattern, potentially consistent with trigeminal schwannoma versus meningioma, and operative resection was recommended. Conclusion We have reported a case of RCC presenting with numbness via metastatic spread to Meckel's cave. Although uncommon, metastasis is an important diagnostic consideration for enhancing cranial nerve lesions. Our case has demonstrated that, although a history of malignancy, multiple lesions, or systemic/constitutional symptoms are typical, rare cases can demonstrate isolated central nervous system findings. Thus, short-term radiographic surveillance is indicated if the diagnosis of an intracranial or cranial nerve mass lesion is equivocal.