Meningioma

Meningioma

The meninges are 3 membranes that cover the brain and the spinal cord. A tumor that arises from the meninges is known as meningioma. These tumors thus arise from outside the brain (or spinal cord) and then in grow into it, thus compressing the structures underneath. Meningiomas are usually non-cancerous and very rarely cancerous. Benign meningiomas carry a small risk of becoming malignant later. Their rate of growth is very slow.

Causative and risk factors

Even though the exact cause of development of meningiomas is not known, certain major risk factors have been identified. They include exposure to radiation, previous skull fracture and suffering from a disorder known as neurofibromatosis type 2. Women are more commonly affected.

 

Clinical presentation

Meningiomas are usually asymptomatic. Even when symptoms are present, their course of development is very gradual.

The exact symptoms will be determined on the basis of which part of the brain or spinal cord is compressed. When the sphenoid ridge is compressed, the individual will experience mainly eye problems such as eye movement paralysis and reduced vision along with other symptoms such as seizures or headaches. In this way, the exact location and pressure produced by a meningioma will determine the symptoms.

Headache is a common symptom. Other symptoms include blurring of vision, seizures, muscle weakness, numbness, dizziness, loss of smell, inco-ordination and speech difficulties amongst others.

 

Investigations

A meningioma can be diagnosed on the basis of imaging studies such as a CT or MRI scan. A tissue biopsy is performed if necessary.

 

Treatment

In case of benign, slow-growing, asymptomatic meningiomas; only observation is advised. If the tumor carries a risk of malignancy or if the patient starts developing symptoms, then surgery is recommended. Surgery may entail removal of part or whole of the tumor. The aim of surgery is to remove a sufficient part of the tumor in order to relieve the pressure on the underlying structure and preserve nervous function. Radiation therapy is recommended in patients with malignant meningiomas.

One thought on “Meningioma

  1. Thank you pertaining to taking turns the following superb subject matter on your web-site. I noticed it on the internet. I am going to check to come back if you publish additional aricles.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

GO FURTHER

The Best Of Health, wellness & Fitness Delivered To Your Inbox

Sign up for our newsletter to get the latest product updates, information & exclusive offers