Skip to main content
Intermediate Technical IVT

meningioma

A typically benign tumor arising from the meninges, the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord.

Full Definition

Meningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumors in adults, arising from arachnoid cap cells of the meninges. Most are WHO grade I (benign), though grade II (atypical) and grade III (anaplastic) variants exist. They are more common in women and often associated with hormonal factors. Symptoms depend on location and may include headaches, seizures, or focal neurological deficits. Treatment options include observation for small asymptomatic tumors, surgical resection, or stereotactic radiosurgery. Recurrence rates vary significantly based on grade and extent of resection.

In Context

  • "The parasagittal meningioma was successfully resected with Simpson grade I removal." — Operative report
  • "Atypical meningioma requires adjuvant radiation therapy following resection." — Treatment plan

Also known as

meningeal tumor

Contrasted with

glioma metastatic tumor

Don't confuse with

schwannoma hemangiopericytoma

Editors from these organisations have used our services since 1998

Reuters BBC Oxford University Press Penguin Random House Springer Microsoft Suncor Energy United Nations Fisher Investments IBM The Home Depot KODAK CHEVRON