MENINGIOMA

Meningioma: causes, symptoms, risk factors, and treatment

A meningioma is a specific type of primary brain tumor that forms in the meninges, the thin layer of tissue surrounding the brain and spinal cord. In most cases, it is benign, meaning it is not cancerous and grows slowly. Depending on its location and size, a meningioma can still cause health problems.[1] Continue reading to learn more about the causes and symptoms of this brain tumor, as well as how it can be treated!

Types of meningioma

Meningiomas are most often located near the upper and outer curve of the brain, but they can also appear at the base of the skull or, much more rarely, in the spine.[2] Depending on the location and type of tissue involved, there are several types of meningiomas, the most common being:

• convexity meningiomas - grow on the surface of the brain, exerting pressure on it as they develop;
• intraventricular meningiomas - develop in the brain's ventricles;
• olfactory groove meningiomas - found at the base of the skull, near the olfactory nerve, responsible for the sense of smell;
• sphenoid wing meningiomas - form behind the eyes.[2]

Another classification of meningiomas is based on their severity. Thus, we have:

• Grade I meningioma (typical meningioma) - accounts for approximately 80% of diagnosed cases, is benign, and grows slowly;
• Grade II meningioma (atypical meningioma) - accounts for about 17% of cases; it is still benign but grows faster and can be more difficult to treat;
• Grade III meningioma (anaplastic meningioma) - a malignant meningioma with a rapid growth and spread rate; it accounts for only 1.7% of cases but is the most dangerous and requires aggressive treatment.[2]

Why does meningioma occur: causes and risk factors

The exact causes of meningioma are still unclear. However, several risk factors have been identified, including:

• radiation therapy to the head;
• female sex (meningiomas are more common in women than in men, suggesting that female hormones may play a role in the development of this condition);
• neurofibromatosis type 2 (a rare genetic disorder);
• obesity.[1]

Symptoms of meningioma

Since meningiomas grow slowly, they may not produce visible symptoms until they become large enough to affect nearby structures. Some of the most common symptoms of cerebral meningiomas include:

• headaches or migraines;
• dizziness;
• nausea and vomiting;
• vision changes;
• hearing loss;
• seizures;
• changes in behavior or personality;
• memory problems;
• exaggerated or hyperactive reflexes;
• muscle weakness;
• paralysis in certain areas of the body.[1][2]

However, it should be noted that meningioma symptoms can vary depending on the exact location of the tumor in the brain or spinal cord. For example, olfactory groove meningiomas can cause partial or complete loss of smell, known as anosmia. Meningiomas that develop along the posterior midline of the frontal lobe can lead to paralysis of the legs and lower body, a condition called paraplegia. Sphenoid wing meningiomas can cause cavernous sinus syndrome and proptosis, meaning one or both eyes protrude from their natural position. Spinal meningiomas can cause symptoms such as pain at the tumor site, radiculopathy, neurological problems like weakness, weak muscle tone, and low or absent reflex responses.[2]

How is meningioma diagnosed?

Diagnosing meningioma can be challenging due to its slow growth and the frequent lack of symptoms associated with it.

If a doctor suspects the presence of a meningioma, certain imaging investigations may be recommended to confirm or rule out the diagnosis. The most commonly used are MRI or magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography. When the diagnosis is uncertain, a biopsy may be necessary to confirm the presence of meningioma and exclude other possible diagnoses.[1][2]

Treatment of meningioma

Treatment for meningioma is complex and depends on several factors such as the size of the tumor, its location, growth rate, the patient's age, and overall health. A small, slow-growing meningioma that does not cause symptoms may not require immediate treatment. In such cases, monitoring the tumor through periodic brain scans and regular check-ups may be the chosen approach.[1][2]

The primary treatment for symptomatic or large meningiomas, which are expected to cause symptoms in the near future, is surgical. Neurosurgical treatment involves total or partial resection of the tumor (depending on the tumor's location, its connection to brain tissue or surrounding veins, and other factors).[1][2]

Radiation therapy, which uses radiation to kill or stop the growth of cancer cells, is another treatment option for meningioma. It is usually used for meningiomas that cannot be completely removed or when the risk of surgery outweighs its benefits. Types of radiation therapy for treating meningiomas include stereotactic radiosurgery, external beam radiation therapy, and brachytherapy. In rare cases where the meningioma does not respond to surgery or radiation therapy, chemotherapy may be an option. Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to combat cancer, and although it is not a common option in meningioma treatment, it may be recommended for recurrent or progressive meningiomas.[1][2]

There are no natural treatments for meningioma. However, alternative treatments may help alleviate the side effects of treatments for this tumor or manage the stress caused by such a diagnosis: acupuncture, massage, meditation, relaxation exercises, etc.[1]

Palliative care is also an important component of meningioma treatment. It focuses on improving the patient's quality of life by managing symptoms and treatment side effects, providing emotional and social support. Palliative treatments may include medications, nutritional changes, relaxation techniques, procedures to improve neurological function, and quality of life, among others.[1][2]

Meningioma is a relatively common brain tumor that, although benign in most cases, can cause significant symptoms. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are essential for a favorable prognosis. If you experience concerning symptoms, consult a doctor!

References:

1. „Meningioma”, Mayo Clinic, 2024. Accessed on 9 Aug. 2024.
2. „Meningioma: What It Is, Causes, Symptoms & Treatment”, Cleveland Clinic, 2022. Accessed on 9 Aug. 2024.