Description The meninges are th...
Description
The meninges are the covering of the brain. Abnormal growth of these cells causes a tumor called a meningioma. These tumors are generally slow growing and do not spread beyond the brain. Symptoms depend on the size and location of the tumor. Some tumors are found incidentally when a CT scan is done for another reason. This disorder is very rare in children but increases with age.
Symptoms
Most often no symptoms. Possible symptoms include headaches, seizures, weakness in one part of the body, numbness, confusion, gait problems, change in personality.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan or MRI identifies the meningioma. Biopsies are rarely performed since meningiomas have a characteristic appearance on CT or MRI. If the appearance is atypical, a biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Brain biopsy
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Neurology
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. A CT scan or MRI identifies the meningioma. Biopsies are rarely performed since meningiomas have a characteristic appearance on CT or MRI. If the appearance is atypical, a biopsy can confirm the diagnosis.
Tests:
CT Scan, Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
Other Specific Tests: Brain biopsy
Specialists:
Neurosurgery, Neurology
Treatment
Therapy depends on the size of the tumor, the location of the tumor, and the symptoms. Small meningiomas that don't cause symptoms can be observed, with repeat brain imaging in the future. Larger meningiomas and/or ones that cause symptoms can be treated with surgery or radiation therapy.