Case Report: Unexpected Dural Metastasis in a Patient with Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Lacrimal Gland Four Years After Surgery

Authors

Soukaina BAHHA, Ayoub Bakhil, Salma El Aouadi, Asmae Guennouni, Sarah Loubaris, Youssef Omor, Rachida Latib

Journal Information

Journal: Medpeer Publisher

ISSN: 3066-2737

Volume: 3

Issue: 5

Date of Publication: 2026/05/02

DOI: 10.70780/medpeer.000QGSH

Abstract

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the lacrimal gland is a rare, slow-growing malignancy with a tendency for late recurrence and distant metastasis. Despite successful initial treatment, ACC can recur years later, often in a clinically silent manner. This case report describes a 45-year-old patient with a history of ACC of the lacrimal gland, who underwent left eye exenteration followed by radiotherapy. Four years after the initial treatment, a routine MRI revealed an unexpected dural metastasis in the left frontotemporal region. The mass demonstrated pachymeningeal thickening and enhancement, indicative of malignant spread. Remarkably, the patient remained asymptomatic, underscoring the importance of long-term follow-up and imaging surveillance in detecting late recurrences and metastases. This case highlights the unpredictable nature of ACC, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring even years after successful treatment.

Keywords

Adenoid cystic carcinoma, lacrimal gland, metastasis