Meningioma

 

Meningiomas arise from the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, called the meninges. Most of the meningiomas are benign and slow-growing tumors. Due to their slow growth, the clinic is silent and they can reach quite large sizes. They are most common between the ages of 40-60. They are two times more common in women than men.

Meningiomas make up 20% of brain tumors and are the most common brain tumors. They constitute 10% of spine tumors.

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Meningioma Symptoms

 

The signs and symptoms of the meningioma typically progress gradually. Initially, it may not cause any complaints. Symptoms are related to which part of the brain it is located in. The following symptoms may be observed:

• Visual impairment, double vision, blurred vision, blindness

• Headache that gets worse over time

• Hearing loss, tinnitus

• Loss of memory

• Lost sense of smell

• Epilepsy

• Loss of strength, paralysis in the arm or leg

 

Meningioma Diagnosis

 

Radiological diagnosis is made with MRI or CT performed after neurological examination. However, the definitive diagnosis is always made after pathological examination.

 

They are classified pathologically as follows:

Grade1: Benign
Grade2: Atypical
Grade 3: Anaplastic

 

Meningioma Treatment

 

Meningiomas often grow slowly and may increase in size 1-2mm per year. Therefore, annual follow-up with MRI is appropriate for patients who do not show any obvious symptoms.

Surgery and classical radiotherapy or stereotactic radiosurgery (gamma knife) are the treatment methods applied. Surgical success depends on the location of the tumor, the ability to remove the tissue and the experience of the surgeon. Although surgery is the first option in meningiomas, if it is thought that surgical removal will harm the patient rather than benefit, then radiotherapy or stereotactic radiosurgery may be considered. Sometimes, part of the tumor is removed because vital tissues cannot be approached surgically. After the patient's symptoms regress, radiotherapy can be recommended.

 

Most meningiomas are benign and can be treated with surgery. However, if all of the tumor cells cannot be removed during surgery or cannot be treated adequately with other treatment methods, the tumor can grow again. Approximately 5% of benign meningiomas that are completely removed, 30% of benign meningiomas that can be partially removed, and 40% of atypical meningiomas have regrowed within 5 years following surgery.

Dr. Tamer Tekin