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brain meningioma
ICD-10 Codes
Description
What is a Brain Meningioma?
A brain meningioma is a type of tumor that develops from the meninges, which are three layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. These tumors are typically benign (non-cancerous) and are the most common type of primary brain tumor in adults.
Characteristics of Brain Meningiomas
- They originate from arachnoid cap cells, which are cells within the thin, spider web-like membrane that surrounds the brain and spinal cord [5].
- Most meningiomas are not cancerous (benign) and grow slowly over time [7].
- They can occur on any part of the brain or spinal cord, but are most commonly found in the following areas:
- Convexity meningioma: grows on the surface of the brain directly under the skull [3].
- Other types of meningiomas can also occur, such as those that grow in the middle cranial fossa or along the spinal cord.
- Meningiomas are usually slow-growing and may not cause symptoms for many years.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of brain meningiomas is unknown, but they are thought to be related to genetic mutations. Some risk factors that may increase a person's likelihood of developing a meningioma include:
- Family history: having a family member with a meningioma or other type of brain tumor.
- Genetic predisposition: certain genetic conditions, such as neurofibromatosis type 2, can increase the risk of developing a meningioma.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms of a brain meningioma may include:
- Headaches
- Weakness or numbness in the face or extremities
- Vision changes or double vision
- Seizures
Diagnosis is typically made using imaging tests
Additional Characteristics
- A type of tumor that develops from the meninges, which are three layers of tissue that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord.
- Typically benign (non-cancerous) and slow-growing.
- Can occur on any part of the brain or spinal cord, but most commonly found in the convexity meningioma area.
- Exact cause is unknown, but thought to be related to genetic mutations.
- Symptoms may include headaches, weakness or numbness in the face or extremities, vision changes or double vision, and seizures.
Signs and Symptoms
Common Signs and Symptoms of Brain Meningioma
Brain meningiomas can cause a wide range of symptoms, depending on their location and size. Here are some common signs and symptoms:
- Headaches: Headaches are one of the most common symptoms of meningioma, especially in the morning [1].
- Vision Changes: Changes in vision, such as seeing double or blurring, can occur due to compression of the optic nerve [1].
- Hearing Loss: Hearing loss or ringing in the ears can be caused by compression of the auditory nerves [1].
- Difficulty Concentrating: Difficulty concentrating and memory loss are also common symptoms [2].
- Personality Changes: Personality changes, seizures, weakness, numbness, and vision loss or other focal neurological deficits can occur with convexity meningiomas [3].
- Dizziness and Muscle Weakness: Headaches, dizziness, seizures, and muscle weakness are symptoms that can occur with any type of meningioma [4].
- Vision Loss and Hearing Problems: Compression of the brain and/or spinal cord by a meningioma can lead to symptoms such as headaches, seizures, vision loss, mental changes, and weakness [5].
- Facial and Hearing Problems: The tumor can press on the cranial nerves, causing facial and hearing problems [6].
Symptoms Depend on Location
The symptoms of brain meningioma depend on where the tumor is located. For example:
- Convexity Meningiomas: Symptoms include headache, seizures, weakness, numbness, vision loss or other focal neurological deficits [3].
- Petrous Meningiomas: These tumors can press on the trigeminal nerve, causing a condition called trigeminal neuralgia [6].
It's essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms. A proper diagnosis and treatment plan can help manage the condition and improve quality of life.
References: [1] - Symptoms · Changes in vision, such as seeing double or blurring. · Headaches that are worse in the morning. · Hearing loss or ringing in the ears. [2] - Difficulty concentrating. Memory loss. Personality changes. Seizures. Weakness. Difficulties with language. [3] - Symptoms of a convexity meningioma are diverse and include headache, seizures, weakness, numbness, vision loss or other focal neurological deficits. Falcine and ... [4] - Headaches, dizziness, seizures and muscle weakness are symptoms that can occur with any type of meningioma. [5] - Symptoms can include headaches, vision changes, hearing loss, and more. Treatment often depends on the grade and behaviour of the tumour, but can range from ... [6] - It can press on the cranial nerves, causing facial and hearing problems. Petrous meningiomas can press on the trigeminal nerve, causing a condition called ...
Additional Symptoms
- Vision Changes
- Headaches
- Hearing Loss
- Difficulty Concentrating
- Personality Changes
- Dizziness and Muscle Weakness
- Vision Loss and Hearing Problems
- Facial and Hearing Problems
Diagnostic Tests
Diagnosing Brain Meningioma: A Comprehensive Overview
Diagnosing brain meningioma involves a combination of neurological exams, imaging tests, and other diagnostic procedures. Here's an overview of the common diagnostic tests used to diagnose this type of tumor:
- Neurological Exam: A thorough neurological exam is essential in diagnosing brain meningioma. This includes assessing vision, hearing, balance, coordination, reflexes, and cognitive function [1].
- Imaging Tests: Imaging tests are crucial in identifying the tumor and its location. The most effective imaging test for diagnosing meningioma is a Brain MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan with contrast [4]. This painless test uses magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain.
- Detailed Vision Examination: A detailed vision examination may be conducted to assess any changes in vision, which can be a symptom of meningioma [2].
- Hearing Test: A hearing test may also be performed to evaluate any changes in hearing, which can be associated with meningioma [2].
- Imaging Tests for Tumor Identification: Imaging tests such as MRI and CT scans may show an abnormal area that is likely to be a brain or spinal cord tumor. However, these scans cannot always confirm the presence of a meningioma [7].
Additional Diagnostic Procedures
In some cases, additional diagnostic procedures may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis of meningioma. These may include:
- Biopsy: A biopsy involves taking a sample of tissue from the tumor for further examination under a microscope.
- Scans of the Brain: Scans such as MRI and CT scans can help identify the location and size of the tumor [8].
- Blood Tests: Blood tests may be conducted to rule out other conditions that may cause similar symptoms.
Early Detection and Diagnosis
Early detection and diagnosis are crucial in treating meningioma effectively. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms such as changes in vision, hearing, balance, or cognitive function, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
References:
[1] Context 1 [2] Context 2 [4] Context 4 [7] Context 7 [8] Context 8
Additional Diagnostic Tests
- Imaging Tests
- Blood Tests
- Biopsy
- Neurological Exam
- Hearing Test
- Detailed Vision Examination
- Scans of the Brain
Treatment
Overview of Drug Treatment for Brain Meningiomas
Brain meningiomas are typically slow-growing tumors that arise from the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. While surgery is often the primary treatment option, drug therapy may be considered in certain cases.
Chemotherapy for Meningiomas
Chemotherapy, also known as medication therapy, is rarely used to treat meningiomas [1]. However, it may be employed when the tumor does not respond to other treatments or has recurred. Currently, there is no effective chemotherapy for refractory or recurrent meningiomas [2].
Targeted Agents and Emerging Treatments
Several promising targeted agents have been developed to treat meningiomas. These include drugs that target specific molecular pathways involved in tumor growth and progression [5]. Researchers are also exploring the use of newer cancer treatments, such as abemaciclib, which has shown effectiveness in select patients and mouse models [6].
Drugs Used in Meningioma Treatment
When chemotherapy is used to treat meningiomas, medical oncologists may recommend one of the following drugs:
- Hydroxyurea, a traditional chemotherapy drug that can shrink or slow down tumor growth [7]
- Combinations of drugs, such as the PCV regimen (procarbazine, CCNU, and vincristine), which may also be used to treat meningiomas [8]
Current Treatment Landscape
The treatment landscape for brain meningiomas is evolving, with a focus on developing more effective targeted therapies. The Meningioma Center at Johns Hopkins' Comprehensive Brain Tumor Center offers comprehensive care for patients with meningiomas, including medical oncology services.
References:
[1] Mar 29, 2024 — Medicines [2] by A Shahbandi · 2023 · Cited by 14 [5] by F Nigim · 2018 · Cited by 45 [6] [7] When chemotherapy is used to treat meningiomas, medical oncologists may recommend one of the following drugs: Hydroxyurea, a traditional chemotherapy drug that ... [8] Aug 8, 2024 — Combinations of drugs, such as the PCV regimen (procarbazine, CCNU, and vincristine), may also be used.
Recommended Medications
- Combinations of drugs: PCV regimen (procarbazine, CCNU, and vincristine)
- hydroxyurea
💊 Drug information is sourced from ChEBI (Chemical Entities of Biological Interest) database. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any medication. Click on any medication name for detailed information.
Differential Diagnosis
Differential Diagnoses for Brain Meningiomas
Brain meningiomas are typically benign tumors that arise from the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. However, it's essential to consider differential diagnoses when evaluating patients with suspected meningiomas.
- Schwannomas: These are the most common differential diagnoses for meningiomas [5]. Schwannomas are tumors that arise from the nerve sheaths of cranial nerves.
- Solitary Fibrous Tumor/Hemangiopericytoma (SFT/HP): This is another rare meningeal tumor that can mimic meningiomas in appearance and behavior [5].
- Primary Neoplastic Processes: These include other types of brain tumors, such as gliomas or ependymomas, which can affect the dura mater and mimic meningiomas.
- Inflammatory, Infectious, and Vascular Pathologies: Various conditions, including infections (e.g., abscesses), inflammatory diseases (e.g., vasculitis), and vascular malformations, can also present with similar symptoms to meningiomas [6].
Key Points
- Most meningioma tumors are benign (85-90%), but a small percentage (10-15%) can be atypical or malignant [3].
- Meningiomas are the most common type of primary central nervous system tumor, accounting for about 30% of all brain tumors [4].
References
[1] Context result 3 [2] Context result 6 [3] Context result 3 [4] Context result 4 [5] Context result 5 [6] Context result 6
Additional Differential Diagnoses
- Schwannomas
- Primary Neoplastic Processes
- Inflammatory, Infectious, and Vascular Pathologies
- solitary fibrous tumor/hemangiopericytoma
Additional Information
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- 2011-07-21T05:39:28Z
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- A brain cancer that is characterized by tumor of the meninges, that develops from the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord, has_material_basis_in abnormally proliferating cells derives_from meningeal cells of embryonic ectoderm origin.
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