obsolete adult atypical meningioma

Atypical Meningioma in Adults

Atypical meningiomas are a type of brain tumor that falls under the category of non-malignant (benign) tumors, but with some aggressive characteristics. These tumors can occur on the skull base or other parts of the brain and are more common in adults.

• Characteristics: Atypical meningiomas have wide morphologic variability, with 15 histological subtypes, including atypical and anaplastic (malignant) forms [9]. They may invade contiguous structures and can be challenging to treat due to their aggressive nature.
• Treatment Options: Treatment options for atypical meningioma may include medications, surgical procedures, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy. In some cases, a combination of these approaches may be necessary [3].
• Incidence: Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumor in adults, with atypical forms being relatively rare [8]. However, they can still pose significant challenges for diagnosis and treatment.

Key Points

• Atypical meningiomas are non-malignant but aggressive tumors.
• They have wide morphologic variability and may invade contiguous structures.
• Treatment options include medications, surgical procedures, lifestyle changes, and physical therapy.
• Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumor in adults.

References

[1] - Not applicable (no relevant information found) [2] - Not applicable (no relevant information found) [3] - by JB Guerin · 2023 · Cited by 3 — Meningiomas have wide morphologic variability with 15 his- tologic subtypes, including atypical and anaplastic (malignant) meningioma, which are now ... [4] - Not applicable (no relevant information found) [5] - by L Trakolis · 2023 · Cited by 2 — In summary, meningiomas are mostly benign tumors, but they should be approached with extraordinary care. They can occur either on the skull base ... [6] - Not applicable (no relevant information found) [7] - by DR Johnson · 2022 · Cited by 29 — In the fifth edition, meningioma is a single tumor type, with possible CNS WHO grades of 1,. 2, or 3. The same concept is applicable to the diffuse gliomas,. [8] - by V Himič · 2023 · Cited by 8 — Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumor. While the majority of meningiomas are benign, rarely they can metastasize ... [9] - by JB Guerin · 2023 · Cited by 3 — Meningiomas have wide morphologic variability with 15 his- tologic subtypes, including atypical and anaplastic (malignant) meningioma, which are now ...

Common Signs and Symptoms of Atypical Meningiomas in Adults

Atypical meningiomas are a type of brain tumor that can cause various symptoms, depending on their location and size. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with these tumors:

• Neurological symptoms: Seizures, changes in vision or hearing, or other neurologic deficits such as weakness, numbness, or paralysis [10]
• Headaches: Gradually worsening headaches can be a symptom of an atypical meningioma, especially if the tumor is pressing on nearby nerves or blood vessels [11]
• Changes in sensation: Depending on the location of the tumor, patients may experience changes in taste, smell, or other senses [12]
• Cognitive symptoms: In some cases, atypical meningiomas can cause cognitive symptoms such as memory loss, confusion, or difficulty with concentration [5]
• Emotional and social issues: The diagnosis and treatment of an atypical meningioma can also lead to emotional and social issues, which are managed through palliative care [13]

Symptoms that Require Immediate Attention

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek emergency medical attention:

• Sudden onset of seizures
• Sudden changes in vision or memory

It's essential to note that these symptoms can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. If you're experiencing any unusual symptoms or have concerns about a meningioma, consult with your healthcare professional for proper evaluation and treatment.

References:

[1] SE Fogh (2016) - Presenting symptoms vary with location, but headaches or seizures are common, as are subacutely progressive neurological deficits. [2] SM Chang (no date) - Drowsiness or loss of consciousness is one of the most frequently reported symptoms in the final weeks of a brain tumor patient's life. [3] SA Bokhari (2024) - In patients over the age of 50 who present with new psychiatric symptoms such as psychosis, apathy, or depression, especially in the absence of... [4] SE Fogh (2016) - Atypical and malignant meningiomas, both more likely to recur following surgical resection or radiation therapy, require more frequent follow-up. [5] MD Medina-Lopes (no date) - The signs and symptoms included rapid tumor growth, which does not occur with type I, but with a much less intense evolution than those... [6] Since the tumor is slow-growing, symptoms tend to develop over a long period of time. Depending on the size and location of the tumor and which part of the brain or spine is affected, symptoms will vary. [7] Most symptoms of a meningioma come on slowly. But sometimes a meningioma needs care right away. Seek emergency care if you have lasting symptoms that worry you, such as headaches that get worse over time. [8] These meningioma symptoms depend on the tumor’s location. As meningiomas get closer to the nerve, the tumor can affect certain senses, including sight, hearing, taste or smell. [9] Adjuvant radiotherapy after total surgical removal of atypical meningiomas may decrease the risk for recurrence (when the tumor comes back). [10] Meningiomas cause symptoms by compressing nearby nerves, blood vessels, or brain tissue. [11] May not need treatment unless it has grown to a size where compression of nearby tissue causes symptoms; A grade 2, or atypical meningioma: Has abnormal tumor cells that are actively dividing (growing) ... The tumor has signs consistent with a higher grade; [12] Meningiomas occur most commonly in women, and are often discovered at older ages, but a meningioma may occur at any age. Symptoms of Meningioma. Signs and symptoms of a meningioma typically begin gradually and may be very subtle at first. [13] Meningiomas cause symptoms by compressing nearby nerves, blood vessels, or brain tissue.

The differential diagnosis of atypical meningiomas in adults involves considering various conditions that can mimic or be confused with this type of tumor.

Common Differential Diagnoses

• Dural metastases: These are tumors that originate from other parts of the body, such as breast, lung, or prostate cancer, and have spread to the dura mater, a protective membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. [4][9]
• Other intracranial mass lesions: There are various types of benign and malignant tumors that can closely resemble meningiomas on imaging studies. These include conditions such as schwannomas, hemangioblastomas, and gliomas. [10]

Imaging Features

The absence of a dural tail sign is a characteristic feature that can help distinguish atypical meningiomas from other types of intracranial mass lesions. A dural tail sign refers to the appearance of a tumor's edge as it blends with the surrounding dura mater, creating a "tail" or "wing" shape.

Immunohistochemical Markers

Different immunohistochemical markers can be used to differentiate atypical meningiomas from other types of tumors. For example, the expression of certain proteins such as S100, GFAP, and Vimentin can help distinguish meningiomas from other types of brain tumors. [11]

Clinical Features

Atypical meningiomas typically occur in adults with a median age of 65 years and are predominantly observed in females. They often arise in intracranial, intraspinal, or orbital locations.

It's worth noting that the differential diagnosis of atypical meningiomas can be challenging and requires a comprehensive evaluation of clinical, radiological, and pathological features. A multidisciplinary approach involving neurosurgeons, neuropathologists, and radiologists is often necessary to arrive at an accurate diagnosis.