1. Brief Introduction
Meningiomas are brain tumors that develop in the meninges, the tissue that surrounds and protects the brain and spinal cord. Although most meningiomas are not cancerous, these tumors can cause problems as they grow and press against important parts of the brain or spinal cord. The cause of meningiomas is not well understood, but may include both genetic (inherited) and environmental factors.
2. Symptoms
◆ Seizures
◆ Visual changes
◆ Hearing loss
◆ Changes in thinking or personality
◆ Arm and/or leg function change
◆ Balance or walking difficulty
◆ Headaches, nausea, and vomiting
◆ Loss of sense of smell
3. Examinations
Meningioma is usually diagnosed after a scan of your brain, usually magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). MRI gives a detailed image of the brain and can show if there is a tumor, especially if contrast material is given.
In some cases, a meningioma is found after a computed tomography (CT) scan or MRI is done for another reason (such as after a head injury). In other cases, a scan is done because of new or worrisome symptoms, like seizures.
4. Treatment Options
The best treatment for a meningioma depends upon the tumor's size, how fast it is growing, where it is located, and your age and health. When deciding which treatment is best, you and your doctor must also consider the potential benefits of treatment (ie, reducing symptoms and preventing further tumor growth) and the potential side effects and risks of treatment.
Surgery is the preferred treatment for most meningiomas, especially for tumors that are large, growing quickly, or causing symptoms. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible. However, removing the entire tumor is not always possible, depending upon the size and location of the meningioma. I
It is often possible to postpone treatment and watch a meningioma closely. This is called active surveillance or watchful waiting. Active surveillance may be an option if a meningioma is small, not causing symptoms, and presumed to be benign.
You can find professional doctors and experts about this disease here for your further consultation and treatment.
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