Meningioma

Disease description

Meningioma is a tumor that arises from the membranes (meninges) covering the brain or spinal cord. Although most meningiomas are benign and grow slowly, they can cause significant neurological symptoms due to pressure on surrounding tissues. According to statistics, meningiomas are the most common primary brain tumors, accounting for about 30% of all cases.

Symptoms that require diagnosis and treatment:

• Headaches that worsen over time
• Vision problems (double vision, blurriness)
• Seizures
• Memory and concentration difficulties
• Weakness in limbs
• Changes in hearing or sense of smell

Diagnostic and treatment methods

Diagnosis

The diagnosis of meningioma begins with contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which visualizes the tumor and determines its size, shape, and location. Computed tomography (CT) may also be used to assess tumor density and calcification. In complex cases, a biopsy may be required to confirm the diagnosis and determine the tumor type.

Treatment

The treatment approach depends on the tumor’s size, location, and growth rate. In some cases — especially with small, asymptomatic meningiomas — watchful waiting with regular monitoring is recommended. If the tumor causes symptoms or grows rapidly, surgical removal is performed. Radiation therapy and stereotactic radiosurgery may be used for tumors that are difficult to remove completely or that recur after surgery.

Innovations in global clinics

Modern approaches to meningioma treatment include Gamma Knife and CyberKnife radiosurgery, which deliver precise, non-invasive radiation to the tumor, targeted molecular therapies that inhibit tumor growth at the cellular level, offering hope for effective treatment even in complex cases.