Meningioma

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Retrieved
2022-04-26
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Meningiomas are tumors that originate in the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are not cancerous (benign), though a minority of meningiomas can be classified as atypical or cancerous (malignant). Though rare, malignant meningiomas can be highly aggressive. However, even benign meningiomas can cause problems if their growth affects neighboring areas of the brain. Though most meningiomas grow slowly, there is no way to predict the rate of growth for a particular meningioma or to know how long a specific meningioma was growing before it was diagnosed. Signs and symptoms can vary but may include seizures, headaches, weakness in the arms and legs, and vision loss. Sometimes memory loss, carelessness, and unsteadiness are the only symptoms. Management depends on the location of the meningioma and symptoms present and may include observation, surgery, and/or radiation therapy.