obsolete multiple meningiomas

Common Signs and Symptoms of Multiple Meningiomas

Multiple meningiomas, a rare condition characterized by the presence of two or more unconnected tumors in the intracranial and extracranial areas, can exhibit a range of symptoms depending on their location and size. While not everyone with multiple meningiomas experiences symptoms, understanding the common signs and symptoms is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment.

Common Symptoms:

• Motor Deficits: Most patients (84%) experience motor deficits, which can include weakness, numbness, or paralysis in one or more limbs [9].
• Sensory Deficits: Sensory deficits are also prevalent, affecting approximately 63.1% of patients, and can manifest as numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in various parts of the body [9].
• Pain: Pain is a common symptom, reported by about 27.6% of patients, and can range from mild to severe [9].
• Bladder/Bowel Problems: Approximately 23.3% of patients experience bladder/bowel problems, which can include urinary incontinence or constipation [9].

Less Common Symptoms:

• Seizures: Seizures are a less common symptom, but can occur in some cases, particularly if the tumors are located near critical brain areas [1], [5].
• Changes in Vision or Hearing: Changes in vision or hearing can also occur, depending on the location of the tumors [2], [3].

Rare Symptoms:

• Personality Changes: In rare cases, multiple meningiomas can cause personality changes, mood disorders, psychosis, memory issues, and anxiety [4].
• Life-Threatening Complications: While rare, multiple meningiomas can lead to life-threatening complications if left untreated or if the tumors grow rapidly.

It is essential to note that these symptoms can vary in severity and may not be present in every patient with multiple meningiomas. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly.

References:

[1] Aug 19, 2024 — Other people develop neurologic symptoms such as seizures, changes in vision or hearing, or arm or leg weakness when the tumor puts pressure on ...

[2] Aug 19, 2024 — Changes in thinking or personality – People with large meningiomas may have subtle or even dramatic changes in their personality or thinking.

[3] Jan 6, 2021 — Signs and symptoms​​ Patients with multiple meningiomas can experience a range of symptoms depending on the location and size of the tumors.

[4] Multiple meningiomas, first described by Anfimov and Blumenau in 1889, were defined as the presence of two or more unconnected tumors in the intracranial and extracranial areas without other causes by Cushing and Eisenhardt in 1938, accounting for ~1–10% of all meningiomas.

[5] Most symptoms of a meningioma come on slowly. But sometimes a meningioma needs care right away. Seek emergency care if you have: Sudden onset of seizures. Sudden changes in vision or memory.

[9] Decoding the Warning Signs: Is it a Meningioma? While not everyone with a meningioma experiences symptoms, some people do. Understanding the symptoms of meningioma is crucial, considering they can affect various parts of the brain.

Diagnostic Tests for Multiple Meningiomas

Multiple meningiomas are rare and can be challenging to diagnose. The diagnostic process typically involves a combination of physical examination, medical history, and imaging tests.

• Imaging Tests: Imaging tests such as CT scans and MRI scans are commonly used to diagnose multiple meningiomas. These tests provide detailed images of the brain and can help identify the presence of tumors.
  • CT scans take X-rays that make cross-sectional images of a full picture of the brain, while sometimes an iodine-based dye is used to make the picture easier to read [1].
  • MRI scans use magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain and are often used as the initial diagnostic test for multiple meningiomas [11].
• Physical Examination: A physical examination by a healthcare provider may also be performed to assess neurological function, including reflexes, muscle strength, eye and mouth movement, coordination, and alertness.
  • The physical exam is typically conducted before imaging tests to determine if there are any signs of neurological symptoms or abnormalities [15].
• Genetic Testing: In some cases, genetic testing may be recommended for patients with multiple clear cell meningiomas. This can help identify potential genetic mutations that may affect treatment options.

References

[1] Context result 1: To diagnose a meningioma, a neurologist conducts a thorough neurological exam followed by an imaging test with contrast dye, such as: CT scan.

[11] Context result 11: FLAIR, DWI series and T1 pre- and post-contrast volume) as the initial diagnostic test, unless MRI is contraindicated. CT imaging should be considered if bone involvement is suspected.

[15] Context result 15: A patient with any neurological symptoms will first be given a physical exam that includes neurologic function tests (reflexes, muscle strength, eye and mouth movement, coordination, and alertness).

Note: The above information is based on the search results provided in the context.

Treatment Options for Multiple Meningiomas

While surgery remains the primary treatment option for multiple meningiomas, drug treatment can also be considered in certain cases.

• Chemotherapy: Medicine therapy, also known as chemotherapy, is rarely used to treat meningiomas. However, it may be employed when the meningioma doesn't respond to surgery and radiation (1).
• Targeted Therapies: Researchers are exploring targeted approaches for treating meningiomas, including therapies that inhibit vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitors (4).

Limitations of Drug Treatment

While drug treatment may be an option in some cases, it's essential to note that:

• There isn't a widely used chemotherapy approach specifically designed for the treatment of meningiomas.
• The efficacy of targeted therapies is still limited.

Recommendation

For patients with multiple meningiomas, surveillance for stable and asymptomatic tumors is often recommended (14). In cases where drug treatment is considered, it's crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the limitations and risks associated with these therapies.