Meningioma Tumors
Causes, Diagnosis & Treatment
A brain tumor diagnosis can feel overwhelming, but the surgeons at Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine are recognized for their skilled, patient-centered care. From diagnosis through treatment, our clinicians take ample time to educate and support patients while offering advanced treatment options that minimize risk and produce best-case outcomes.
What is a Meningioma?
Formed on the meninges, the membrane covering the brain and spine, most meningiomas are benign. In fact, this type of tumor is the most common benign brain tumor in adults (though there are occasional malignancies). A small, non-symptomatic meningioma may be treated with observation over time. In the case of more aggressive, fast-growing tumors, surgery is usually required.
Meningioma Types
Meningioma Types
- Grade I: The most common type of meningeal tumor. Slow-growing and often curable when completely removed.
- Grade II: Also called an “atypical meningioma,” this type of tumor grows more quickly and may spread.
- Grade III: Often called malignant or “anaplastic,” grade III meningiomas grow quickly and may spread aggressively. Typically cannot be entirely removed by surgery.
Causes & Symptoms
The cause of meningeal tumors is unknown, though some seem to correlate with genetic disorders like neurofibromatosis. Meningioma growth occurs more often in women than men, and tumor symptoms include, but are not limited to:
- Seizures
- Headaches
- Nausea & vomiting
- Loss of brain function
- Sensory problems & numbness
- Loss of coordination
- Weakness in limbs
- Speech problems
After patients report symptoms, the Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine team performs a CT scan or MRI of the brain and spine. When a meningioma is discovered, your surgeon may biopsy the mass to rule out malignancy and develop a treatment plan that will deliver the best outcome. While it is rare that a meningioma is diagnosed before symptoms occur, it does happen. When this is the case, your clinical team may recommend active surveillance with periodic brain scans to assess tumor changes.
Meningioma Removal: Risks & Considerations
When a meningioma disrupts the central nervous system (CNS), it may prevent cells from receiving nutrients and put damaging pressure on delicate nerve structures. These CNS tumors require prompt intervention.
Meningiomas and their treatment may lead to some complications, such as long-term concentration problems, memory loss, seizures or personality changes. Your PBSSM neurosurgeon offers treatment for complications when possible and may refer you to related specialists for additional symptom management.
In some cases, meningeal tumors grow back after treatment. If this occurs, your surgeon will recommend additional treatment options that may include surveillance, surgery or radiation.
Meningioma Treatment Options
A majority of meningiomas can be removed surgically and often do not return. In some cases, radiation may be considered if a small piece of the tumor remains after surgery—or if the patient is not healthy enough for surgery. The most common methods of reduction or removal include:
- Radiosurgery. Small meningiomas may be treated with a Gamma Knife, which directs targeted radiation at the tumor. The Gamma Knife disrupts the meningioma’s DNA, interfering with its ability to survive.
- Craniotomy. A craniotomy is performed using general anesthesia and is often the preferred way to remove a meningioma. After making a temporary window in the skull, your PBSSM neurosurgeon removes the tumor and a portion of healthy surrounding tissue; then, he carefully closes the skull and reattaches displaced tissue.
- In some instances, PBSSM neurosurgeons can access and remove a meningioma through the nose using an endoscopic/endonasal tube, computer imaging and precision instruments. This minimally invasive approach may be used to remove tumors growing in the ventricular chambers.
Meningioma Experts at Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine
Princeton Brain, Spine & Sports Medicine specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of benign and malignant brain tumors like meningioma and acoustic neuroma. With state-of-the-art offices conveniently located throughout PA and NJ, our neurosurgical practice is an in-network provider for many insurance plans. To request an appointment or schedule a new patient consultation, call 215.741.3141 in PA or 609.921.9001 in NJ.
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