Originating in the brain, a region of membranes that is part of the Central Nervous System, meningioma is generally a common benign tumor and is the result of abnormal cell division of the meninges. This part of the brain is responsible for involving the brain and spinal cord, but its causes can be genetic or hormonal disorders.
“The main symptoms of this type of tumor can be headache, due to the abnormal growth of the membranes, seizures in cases of meningiomas that affect the cerebral cortex, lack of coordination, loss of strength or sensitivity in a limb. Typically, symptoms vary depending on where the tumor develops”, says Dr. Roberto Abramoff, oncologist at Hcor.
To detect a meningioma, preventive and imaging tests such as tomography and magnetic resonance imaging are essential. However, the person must be aware of the risk factors for developing the tumor, which are: neurofibromatosis and ionizing radiation in the head region.
“The most effective method for treating this type of cancer, when large and symptomatic, is surgery followed by radiotherapy, and radiosurgery may also be considered. Small and asymptomatic meningiomas can be monitored with imaging tests”, informs the specialist.
