Overview
Meningiomas are tumours that arise from the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
They are typically slow-growing and most often benign (non-cancerous), although some can be malignant.
Meningiomas can occur in various locations, and their size and location can affect their symptoms and treatment
options.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of meningiomas may include:
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Changes in vision (blurred or double vision)
- Hearing loss or tinnitus (ringing in the ears)
- Neurological deficits (weakness, numbness or coordination problems)
- Changes in personality or cognitive function, depending on the tumour’s location
Diagnosis
Diagnosis begins with medical history evaluation and a physical examination, to assess symptoms and neurological
function.
Imaging studies such as MRI is the preferred method to visualise the tumour’s presence, size and location. CT scans
may
also be used.
In some cases, a biopsy may be performed to determine the tumours type and whether it is benign or malignant.
Treatment
Small, asymptomatic meningiomas may be monitored with regular imaging studies without immediate intervention.
The primary treatment for symptomatic or larger meningiomas, is surgery, where the goal is to remove as much of the
tumour as possible, while minimising damage to surrounding tissues.
Radiation therapy may be used after surgery (adjuvant therapy), or as a primary treatment for tumours that are
unable to
be surgically removed. Stereotactic radiosurgery is a focused radiation treatment option that targets the tumour
precisely.
The management of meningiomas is highly individualised, based on factors such as tumour size, location, patient
health
and symptoms. Ongoing follow-up with healthcare professionals specialising in neurosurgery and oncology is important
for
managing treatment and monitoring reoccurrence
