Overview

Meningiomas are tumours arising from the meninges, the protective outer membrane covering the brain and spinal cord. They are the most common type of brain tumour, accounting for almost 30 percent of all brain tumours. These are benign and slow-growing tumours but may become malignant in rare cases. This post discusses the causes, symptoms, and treatment options of meningiomas.

Causes of Meningiomas

The exact cause of the medical disorder is still unknown by researchers. Mentioned below are some of the causes of meningiomas that can help understand the effects of the disease:

- Genetics- Genetic mutations are one of the major Causes of Meningiomas. The medical issue contributes to many other neurological disorders such as brain tumours or other issues.
- Radiation Exposure- Exposure to high radiation beams is also one of the major Causes of Meningiomas. People involved in professions with exposure to high radiation are more prone to getting affected by Meningiomas.
- Age- Aging is also one of the major Causes of Meningiomas. People above 65 to 70 are more prone to getting meningiomas.
- Environmental Factors- Inhaling pesticides and similar other chemicals for longer hours is also one of the Causes of Meningiomas.

Symptoms and Signs of Meningiomas

The signs and symptoms of meningiomas may vary depending on the size and location of the tumour. Here are some common symptoms of meningiomas -

- Seizures - When the tumour irritates or presses the brain can lead to seizures. These seizures may occur frequently and may be mild to severe.
- Headaches - It is one of the most common symptoms of meningiomas. These headaches may be very severe to debilitating in some people, while some may experience minor discomfort. Frequent headaches may occur in patients with meningiomas.
- Numbness or Weakness - Meningiomas affecting different brain parts, including the motor cortex, responsible for controlling movement, can cause numbness and weakness in the limbs and other body parts.
- Cognitive Changes - Meningiomas that affect the frontal or temporal lobes of the brain are responsible for changes in behaviour, personality, and cognition. These changes can lead to confusion, memory loss, and difficulty concentrating.
- Changes in Hearing and Vision - Meningiomas that affect the optic nerve of the brain can cause changes in vision, such as blurred vision, double vision, and even loss of vision. Similarly, if the meningiomas affect the brain's hearing centre, it can lead to impaired vision.

Treatment Options for Meningiomas

- Surgery- This procedure helps remove the meningioma cells and is a preferred method of treating meningiomas.
- Chemotherapy- Chemotherapy is recommended as an alternative treatment option for meningiomas when a tumour is located too close to the spinal cord. The procedure involves using chemical drugs that help kill the cancerous cells and make the affected individual heal within a shorter period.
- Radiation Therapy- Using radiation beams to kill cancerous cells is also one of the treatment options for meningiomas. The therapy helps to kill the malignant meningioma and avoid their recurrence for the re-growth of the medical disorder. The further stages of the therapy involve many other forms of therapies, such as Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS), Fractionated Stereotactic Radiotherapy (SRT), Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT), and Proton Beam Radiation.

Risk Factors for Meningiomas 

Mentioned below are some of the health conditions or Risk Factors for Meningiomas are make an individual more prone to get affected by the medical disorder:

- Radiation Therapy
- Female Hormones
- Obesity

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Oncology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Meningiomas are brain disorders similar to brain tumours and affect the meninges, leading to various cognitive and neurological disorders. Timely medication and treatment options for meningiomas help lower the issue's symptoms and allow the affected individual to heal quickly.