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MeningiomaDefinitionA meningioma is a tumor of the protective lining of the brain and spinal cord. This lining is called the meninges. Most meningiomas are benign, though some may be malignant. Benign meningiomas are generally slow growing. They usually don’t cause problems unless they are surrounding the structures that cause sight. Malignant meningiomas (also called aggressive or anaplastic) are less common. These tumors are faster growing. They often cause problems and can cause some swelling in the brain. Often both benign and malignant meningiomas require some form of therapy, surgery, and/or radiotherapy depending upon location.
Meningioma © 2009 Nucleus Medical Media, Inc. CausesThe exact cause of meningiomas is unknown. However, there are a few theories under study. These include:
Risk FactorsA risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors for meningioma include:
SymptomsSymptoms of meningioma are usually related to the area of the brain that is affected. Often the symptoms are caused by increased pressure within the skull, from blockage or inflammation. Symptoms may include:
DiagnosisYour doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam. You will also be given a neurologic test to assess your motor skills. Other tests may include:
TreatmentTreatment will depend on whether the tumor is malignant or benign, the size and position of the tumor, as well as your general health. The main types of treatment for meningiomas are: SurgerySurgery may be recommended if the tumor is located in an area of the brain that is accessible to surgery. Most surgeries can be performed without causing neurologic damage. EmbolizationIn some instances, prior to surgery, a catheter may be inserted into blood vessels supplying the meningioma in order to disrupt the flow of blood to the tumor, causing it to shrink and making it easier to remove surgically. Radiation TherapyRadiation therapy is used either on its own or after surgery has been performed. If the tumor is not located in an area of the brain where surgery can be safely done, and the tumor is causing problems, radiation therapy is an effective way of treating the tumor and stopping its growth. If the tumor is malignant, radiation is generally always offered. In this case, radiation may be given either on its own or after surgery to help prevent the tumor from coming back. Your radiation oncologist will describe how the therapy is delivered and how many treatments are needed. You may receive 25-40 treatments on a daily basis, or far fewer treatments if you are having stereotactic radiotherapy (surgery). ChemotherapyChemotherapy is used only in the treatment of malignant meningiomas. Different medications are available and are generally used in conjunction with surgery and radiation therapy. Your oncologist will discuss the options and choice of medications. RESOURCES: Brain Tumor Action National Cancer Institute CANADIAN RESOURCES: Brain Tumor Foundation of Canada The Canadian Brain and Nerve Health Coalition References: Greenberg HS. Meningiomas. In: Gilman S, ed. MedLink Neurology. San Diego, CA: MedLink Corporation. Available at: http://www.medlink.com . Accessed March 17, 2007. Johns Hopkins University website. Available at: http://www.jhu.edu/ . Keller A, Ludwig N, Comtesse N, et al. H-P A minimally invasive multiple marker approach allows highly efficient detection of meningioma tumors. BMC Bioinformatics. 2006,7:539 Last reviewed September 2009 by Judy Chang, MD, FAASM Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Copyright © 2009 EBSCO Publishing All rights reserved.
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