Meningioma is a tumor that develops in the meninges, the membranes that protect the brain. It can be benign or cancerous, and symptoms vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Treatment options include surgery and radiation therapy, and regular CT scans may be needed to monitor tumor growth and detect recurrence.
The membranes that surround and protect the brain are called the meninges. Occasionally, cells in the meninges reproduce abnormally and a tumor, called a meningioma, develops. While it can be cancerous, it is most commonly a benign tumor. This means it will not spread to other areas of the brain.
The reason the tumor develops is not known. It can occur in people of all ages and is somewhat more common in women. Individuals who have had previous radiation therapy to the brain are at greater risk.
Not all individuals will have symptoms, especially if the tumor is small. When symptoms develop, they can vary depending on the location and size of the meningioma and include headaches, vision changes, and hearing difficulties. Other symptoms can include memory loss and possibly seizures. Symptoms may be mild at first. As the tumor grows, symptoms may increase in frequency and severity.
A few different tests may be done to confirm a diagnosis. Computed tomography (CT) is often done to determine the presence and location of the meningioma. Some doctors may prefer that the patient undergo a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI is a more sensitive test and can detect small changes in the size of a tumor.
Even if a meningioma isn’t cancerous, it may require treatment. The type of treatment needed will depend on the size of the tumor, its location, and how fast it appears to be growing. If an individual is not symptomatic, treatment may not be needed. Routine CT scans may be needed to monitor tumor growth.
When treatment is needed, surgery may be an option. Meningioma surgery to remove the tumor can carry risks, such as infection and damage to other areas of the brain. A meningioma may not be able to be removed completely during surgery. Although the tumor arises from the membranes and not from the brain itself, it can be located close to the brain and be dangerous to remove completely.
Radiation therapy is another treatment option. It may be recommended if the entire tumor was not removed during surgery. An external beam of radiation is directed at areas of the tumor to destroy it. Radiation therapy is usually prescribed for several weeks. Although everyone responds differently to radiation therapy, side effects are possible and can include fatigue, headaches, and nausea.
Recovery from a meningioma and its treatment can depend on the patient’s overall health, the size of the tumor, and the patient’s age. Although many patients never have a recurrence, it is possible that the tumor can grow back after treatment. Regular CT scans may be suggested to detect a recurrence early.
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