Integrated molecular and detailed anatomical profiling identifies a prognostically adverse subtype of posterior fossa meningiomas: high-risk copy number alterations are associated with midline predilection and predict poor prognosis.

Abstract

Anatomical localization of meningiomas has been increasingly linked to their genetic alterations. However, studies focusing specifically on the genomic landscape and clinical implications of posterior fossa meningiomas remain limited. In this study, we investigated the genetic, anatomical, and clinical characteristics of posterior fossa meningiomas, aiming to clarify the association between genetic alterations, precise tumor localization, and prognosis. Whole-exome sequencing was performed on 132 consecutive tumors to identify driver mutations and copy number alterations (CNAs). Tumor localization was carefully assessed based on dural attachment, arterial supply, and intraoperative findings. Based on driver mutations and CNAs, tumors were classified into three molecular groups: Group A (no Merlin pathway alterations, n = 71 (54%)), Group B (NF2 mutation/22q loss without high-risk CNAs, n = 45 (34%)), and Group C (high-risk CNAs, n = 16 (12%)). Notably, Group C showed a strong anatomical predilection, with 81% arising from midline structures, including the medial incisura and clivus. Group C tumors were significantly associated with poor progression-free survival following gross total resection (P = 0.023), and this remained significant even when the analysis was anatomically restricted to tumors located in the medial incisura and clivus (P = 0.0003). In multivariable analysis, Group C (P = 0.020, HR 6.60) and preoperative tumor volume > 10 cc (P = 0.044, HR 9.41) independently predicted poor prognosis. Overall, the results demonstrated that approximately 10% of posterior fossa meningiomas harbored high-risk CNAs, predominantly in midline locations, and were associated with worse clinical outcomes. CNA profiling in addition to the identification of driver mutations may provide a valuable tool for risk stratification and decision-making regarding adjuvant therapy in posterior fossa meningiomas.