What is a Meningioma?

A meningioma is a tumor that develops from the meninges, the thin protective layers covering the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are benign (non-cancerous) and grow slowly. Rarely, they can be malignant (cancerous) or atypical with faster growth.

⚠️ Causes

The exact cause is often unknown, but some possible factors include:

• Exposure to ionizing radiation (X-rays, radiation therapy, or environmental sources).

• Neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) – a rare genetic disorder.

• Genetic mutations that trigger abnormal cell growth.
  
  

🧩 Risk Factors

You are more likely to develop a meningioma if you:

• Have had radiation exposure, especially during childhood.

• Are female – due to hormonal influence (estrogen and progesterone).

• Are older in age.

• Are obese.

• Men have a slightly higher risk of malignant meningiomas.
  
  

⚕️ Symptoms

Symptoms usually develop slowly, depending on the tumor’s location and size.

Common signs include:

• Headache (often persistent)

• Nausea and vomiting

• Vision or hearing problems

• Loss of smell

Other possible symptoms:

• Seizures

• Weakness or numbness in an arm, leg, or one side of the body

• Memory loss or confusion

• Personality or mood changes
  
  

🧠 Diagnosis

• MRI or CT scan of the brain to identify the tumor.

• Biopsy (removal of a small tissue sample) may be done to confirm the diagnosis and tumor type.
  
  

💊 Treatment Options

Treatment depends on tumor size, location, growth rate, and your symptoms:

1. Observation ("Watch and Wait") – for small, slow-growing, asymptomatic tumors.

2. Surgery – to remove part or all of the tumor.

3. Radiation Therapy – to shrink or destroy residual tumor cells, especially if surgery isn’t possible.

4. Medications (e.g., steroids) – to reduce brain swelling and relieve symptoms.
   
   

🏠 Home and Follow-Up Care

• Take all medicines as prescribed.

• Stay well-hydrated and eat a balanced diet.

• Gradually resume normal activities as advised by your doctor.

• Attend all follow-up visits for MRI or CT monitoring to check tumor growth or recurrence.
  
  

🚨 When to Contact Your Doctor

Call your doctor if you:

• Have returning or worsening headaches.

• Vomit repeatedly or have persistent nausea.

• Notice new vision or hearing changes.

• Feel increasing weakness or fatigue.

Seek emergency medical help if you:

• Have a seizure (new or recurrent).

• Develop sudden weakness or numbness on one side.

• Have severe vomiting or cannot eat or drink.

• Have trouble walking or loss of balance.

✅ Key Takeaways

• Meningiomas are mostly benign brain tumors that grow slowly from the meninges.

• Many patients live normal lives after surgery or observation.

• Regular follow-up imaging is essential to detect recurrence early.

• Early medical attention for new symptoms ensures the best outcomes.