A meningioma is typically a benign tumor found in or around the brain. These tumors represent 15 percent of all abnormal growths in the primary central nervous system. Typically affecting adults ages 25-65 (with a peak age of about 45), they are more commonly found in women than in men.

Even though these tumors are usually not cancerous, they can be quite dangerous. Although they are slow-growing and do not invade local organs, they do draw the blood supply from those structures. Since meningiomas are typically located in the brain, they can have devastating neurological effects.

What are the symptoms of meningiomas?
Common symptoms of meningiomas include headaches, visual changes, and seizures.

How are these tumors detected?
A procedure called a postcontrast computed tomographic scan (CT scan) is the gold standard for detection of these tumors. Magnetic resonance imaging tests (MRIs) may also help. They delineate the margins of these tumors and help to classify them.