Sphenoidal ridge meningioma

These are most common in women and in people over 50 years. They develop on the lesser wing of the sphenoid bone and expand medially to involve the wall of the cavernous sinus, anteriorly to involve the orbit and laterally into the temporal bone.

Characteristically:

• exophthalmos
• bulging of the bone in the temporal region
• radiological evidence of thickening or erosion on the lesser wing Also:
• painful eye, visual impairment and optic atrophy
• seizures - commence in the temporal lobe as uncinate fits and over time, produce raised intracranial pressure
• III,IV and VI nerve palsies, facial pain and anaesthesia (V ophthalmic) may occur if the cavernous sinus becomes involved