Department of Neurosurgery

What is a meningioma?

The brain is surrounded by the meninges, the membranes of the brain. Meningiomas may develop from this tissue. Most of these tumors are benign and usually slow-growing. Aggressive or fast-growing meningiomas occur only sporadically. In rare cases, a benign meningioma may change into a malignant one. Therefore, also meningiomas that do not require acute treatment, should be checked regularly. During pregnancy, meningioma growth may be accelerated. Therefore, during this time specific controls are recommended.

When and how frequently do meningiomas occur?

Meningiomas account for approximately 14-20% of all primary tumors that arise within the skull (intracranial tumors). They usually develop in middle age. In children, meningiomas are rare (about 3% of all brain tumors).

What are the symptoms and discomfort caused by a meningioma?

Meningiomas can grow long term without causing symptoms, they are often discovered by accident. The type of complaints depends on the location in the brain. Headache, vomiting, seizures, paralysis (hemiplegia/ hemiparesis) and limitations in visual acuity and brain function (cognitive limitation) are typical symptoms.

What are the treatment options?

Surgical removal is the treatment of choice. After the operation an additional radiation therapy can be useful in rapidly growing tumors or in the case of a tumor recurrence.