meningioma
Pronunciation: meh-nin-jee-OH-mah
A typically benign brain tumor arising from the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain.
Full Definition
Meningioma is the most common primary brain tumor in adults, arising from arachnoid cells within the meninges. Most meningiomas are benign (WHO Grade I), though atypical (Grade II) and malignant (Grade III) variants exist. These tumors typically grow slowly and may remain asymptomatic for years. Symptoms, when present, result from mass effect on adjacent brain structures. Treatment options include observation, surgical resection, and radiation therapy, depending on size, location, and growth rate. Meningiomas have a female predominance and may be hormone-sensitive.
Usage
Usage note: Specify WHO grade when known, and describe location using standard anatomical terms.
In Context
- "MRI revealed a 3cm parasagittal meningioma with moderate surrounding edema." — Neurosurgery consultation note
- "The patient underwent gross total resection of the olfactory groove meningioma." — Operative report