Meningioma Manchester

A meningioma is a tumour that grows in the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. These membranes are called the meninges. Whilst this type of tumour is not technically a brain tumour, it is often classed as a brain tumour due to the impact it may have on the brain and nerves.

Meningiomas are almost always benign (non-cancerous) meaning that they grow slowly and are confined to the area where they arose rather than spreading to other areas of the body.

Meningiomas are the most common type of tumour that forms in the head and brain region. Women are more likely than men to develop a meningioma and whilst they are often discovered at an older age, they may occur at any age.

The vast majority of meningiomas occur as chance events without any apparent cause. In other words, they are not caused by any genetic factors or environmental factors.

Once a meningioma forms, its growth pattern can be variable although the majority tend to grow very slowly (a few millimetres per year). Some do spontaneously stop growing and if this is the case, they can be safely left untreated.

The symptoms of a meningioma vary depending on the position and size of the meningioma in the head or spine. Symptoms often start gradually and can gradually worsen over time if the meningioma continues to grow. Symptoms can include:

• Changes in vision
• Frequent headaches
• Hearing loss
• Ringing in the ears
• Memory loss
• Loss of sense of smell
• Seizures
• Weakness or incoordination in limbs
• Difficulty with language
• Nausea / sickness

Often small meningiomas are diagnosed incidentally following a CT or MR scan for other reasons. If neurological symptoms (such as those above) develop, either a CT or MR scan will usually diagnose the meningioma, although an MR scan will typically give more information.

Once a meningioma has been diagnosed, the doctor may decide to keep a watchful eye on it to establish if it is growing and whether it requires treatment. This will usually entail a repeat scan 6-12 months after diagnosis.

The treatments for meningioma depend on its size, location, rate of growth and the patient’s age and general health. For smaller meningiomas, there is often a wait and see approach if the tumour is not causing any symptoms. This may involve a schedule of regular scans to monitor growth.

Surgery may be recommended if the tumour is growing or is causing symptoms. A craniotomy is the most common surgery to remove the meningioma. If the tumour is growing near to the pituitary gland, the surgical procedure could include endoscopic pituitary surgery, also known as transsphenoidal surgery.

If the surgeon is able to remove all visible parts of the tumour then you may be required to have regular follow-up scans to monitor the area. Radiation therapy may be necessary, if the surgeon was unable to remove all parts of the tumour or if the tumour was found to be more aggressive. Radiotherapy can also be used as a first line treatment for some meningiomas if they are more difficult to access or remove surgically.