What Causes Meningioma?

Meningioma is a tumor that originates from the membrane layers called the meninges, which surround the brain and spinal cord. Meningiomas, one of the most common types of brain tumors, are usually benign; however, depending on their location, they can cause serious health problems. Today, thanks to advances in imaging technologies, meningiomas can be detected at an earlier stage and treated successfully.

One of the most frequently asked questions by patients diagnosed with meningioma and their relatives is, “What causes meningioma?” Although the mechanism behind the development of meningiomas has not yet been fully understood, scientific studies suggest that certain risk factors may contribute to the development of the disease.

In this article, we will discuss the causes, risk factors, symptoms, and prevention of meningioma in detail.

What Is a Meningioma?

A meningioma is a tumor that develops from the cells of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord. It does not originate from the brain tissue itself, but as it grows, it can put pressure on surrounding brain structures.

Most meningiomas grow slowly and may remain without symptoms for many years. In some patients, however, symptoms such as headaches, vision problems, or neurological complaints may occur as the tumor grows.

Is Meningioma Benign?

The majority of meningiomas are benign. However, a benign tumor does not necessarily mean that it is harmless. Meningiomas that develop in critical areas of the brain can cause serious health problems.

Where Does Meningioma Develop?

Meningiomas can occur in different regions of the brain.

• Skull base
• Brain surface
• Parasagittal region
• Sphenoid wing
• Around the optic nerve
• Around the cerebellum

What Causes Meningioma?

The exact cause of meningioma is still not fully known. However, certain changes in the genetic structure of cells are thought to contribute to tumor development.

Under normal circumstances, cells grow and die in a regulated manner. When a meningioma develops, however, some cells begin to grow uncontrollably and form tumor tissue.

There are various factors that may influence this process.

Genetic Factors and Meningioma

Genetic predisposition may play an important role in the development of meningioma.

Neurofibromatosis Type 2

One of the genetic disorders most strongly associated with meningioma is neurofibromatosis type 2.

Individuals with this condition have a higher incidence of central nervous system tumors.

Gene Mutations

Research suggests that changes in certain genes may contribute to the development of meningioma.

In particular, certain genetic abnormalities involving chromosome 22 have attracted attention.

Family History

Although most meningiomas are not hereditary, having family members with a history of similar tumors may increase the risk.

Can Radiation Exposure Cause Meningioma?

One of the most important risk factors identified by scientific studies is exposure to radiation.

Radiotherapy Received During Childhood

Radiotherapy treatments applied to the head and neck region, particularly during childhood, may increase the risk of developing meningioma later in life.

High-Dose Radiation

People exposed to high levels of ionizing radiation have a higher likelihood of developing meningioma.

Medical Radiation Procedures

Diagnostic imaging methods used today have not been shown to cause meningioma. However, avoiding unnecessary radiation exposure is recommended.

The Effect of Hormones on Meningioma

Meningioma occurs more frequently in women than in men.

This suggests that hormonal factors may play a role in the development of the disease.

More Common in Women

Studies have shown that meningiomas occur approximately twice as often in women as in men.

Pregnancy

Some meningiomas have been reported to show a tendency to grow during pregnancy.

Hormone Receptors

The presence of hormone receptors in some meningioma cells suggests that hormones may have an influence.

However, research on this subject is still ongoing.

Does Age Increase the Risk of Meningioma?

Although meningioma can occur at any age, it is more common in certain age groups.

Middle-Aged and Older Adults

It is most commonly seen in individuals over the age of 40.

Effect of Aging

As people age, the accumulation of genetic changes in cells may increase the risk of tumor development.

Meningioma in Children

Meningioma is quite rare in childhood.

Does Gender Affect the Development of Meningioma?

The incidence of meningioma is higher in women than in men.

This is thought to be associated with hormonal factors.

However, some types of meningiomas seen in men may show more aggressive behavior.

Is There a Relationship Between Obesity and Meningioma?

Recent studies suggest that the risk of meningioma may be increased in overweight individuals.

Body Mass Index: Some studies have shown an increased risk in people with a high body mass index.

Hormone Levels: Hormonal changes associated with obesity are thought to potentially contribute to the development of meningioma.

Chronic Inflammation: Excess weight may trigger chronic inflammatory processes in the body and potentially influence tumor development.

Can Environmental Factors Cause Meningioma?

Many studies have investigated the potential effects of environmental factors on the development of meningioma.

Chemical Substances: Although the effects of certain environmental chemicals have been investigated, there is no conclusive evidence.

Mobile Phones: Currently, there is no strong scientific evidence demonstrating that mobile phone use causes meningioma.

Electromagnetic Fields: Studies conducted on this subject have not established a clear relationship.

What Are the Symptoms of Meningioma?

The symptoms of meningioma may vary depending on the location of the tumor.

Headache: It is one of the most common symptoms.

Vision Problems: Visual field loss or double vision may occur.

Epileptic Seizures: In some patients, a seizure may be the first symptom.

Balance Problems: Walking difficulties and loss of balance may develop.

Loss of Strength: Reduced strength in the arms and legs may occur.

Memory Problems: These may occur particularly in tumors located in the frontal region.

Is It Possible to Prevent Meningioma?

Since the exact cause of meningioma is unknown, it is not possible to prevent it completely. However, avoiding certain risk factors may be beneficial.

Avoiding Unnecessary Radiation

It is important that medical imaging procedures are performed only when necessary.

Maintaining a Healthy Weight

Preventing obesity provides benefits for overall health.

Regular Health Check-Ups

Early evaluation when symptoms occur is important.

Healthy Lifestyle

A balanced diet and regular physical activity have positive effects on overall health.

How Is Meningioma Diagnosed?

When symptoms occur, various methods may be used.

Neurological Examination

Nervous system functions are evaluated.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

It is one of the most important methods used in the diagnosis of meningioma.

Computed Tomography

It may provide additional information in certain cases.

Pathological Examination

It is performed after surgery to establish a definitive diagnosis.

How Is Meningioma Treated?

The treatment method is determined individually for each patient.

• Monitoring
• Surgical Treatment
• Radiosurgery
• Radiotherapy

The Importance of Early Diagnosis in Meningioma Treatment

Early diagnosis allows the tumor to be treated while it is still smaller in size.

This can:

• Increase surgical success
• Reduce the risk of complications
• Preserve quality of life
• Help prevent neurological deficits

Meningioma is a tumor that originates from the membrane layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord and is usually benign. Although the exact cause of the disease is not fully known, factors such as genetic predisposition, radiation exposure, hormonal factors, age, and obesity are thought to play a role in the development of meningioma.

Individuals experiencing symptoms such as headaches, seizures, vision problems, or balance disorders should seek specialist evaluation without delay. Treatment success is generally high in meningiomas diagnosed at an early stage. Support from an experienced specialist is of great importance throughout the diagnosis and treatment process of meningioma. Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı provides his patients with up-to-date and personalized treatment options through his experience in the treatment of brain tumors and meningiomas.