Meningioma
Meninges are the layer of tissue that protects the brain and spinal cord. A meningioma is a brain tumor that develops in meninges. Meninges are made of three layer tissues that cover and protect the brain and spinal cord. Meningiomas start from cells made up of particular arachnoid cells which are found in a thin, web-like layer that covers the brain and spinal cord. This layer is one of those layers that protects and makes up the brain's covering protective system known as meninges.
Meningiomas in India are not always cancerous (benign), although sometimes they can be cancerous and malignant. If a tumor is cancerous it means it's aggressive or can spread out in other tissues as well or can spread in other parts of the body. A benign tumor is the type of tumor that can't spread to other parts of the body.
Meningiomas are mostly located near the top or outer curve of the brain. They also form at the base of the skull. Spinal meningiomas are very uncommon.
Meningiomas develop slowly and inward. They do not show any symptoms before they are diagnosed. Even benign meningiomas can grow larger enough to be life threatening if they compress and affect nearby areas of the brain.
Types of meningiomas
There are three types of meningiomas, that includes:
Convexity meningiomas: This type of meningiomas develops on the area of the brain directly under the skull. Convexity meningiomas does not show clear symptoms until the tumor has become large enough to press the brain.
Falcine and parasagittal meningiomas: Forms in or next to the falx, this develops in a very thin layer between the two sides of the brain.
Intraventricular meningiomas: This type of meningiomas develops within the ventricular system in the brain where cerebrospinal fluid is made and spread. An intraventricular meningiomas may result in blockage of CSF Flow, which leads to hydrocephalus.
Skull base meningioma: This meningioma forms in the bones that develop in the bottom of the skull and in the bony ridge in the black of the eyed. These meningiomas are harder to remove surgically than convexity meningiomas.
Sphenoid wing meningiomas: Develop on the skull base behind the eyes.
Olfactory groove meningioma: This type of meningioma develops along the nerves that work between the brain and nose. This meningioma tumor can cause loss of smell and grow enough to cause vision issues.
Posterior fossa/ petrous meningiomas: Develop on the underside of the brain. It can put pressure on the cranial nerves causing facial and hearing issues.
Suprasellar meningioma: Form from the base of the skull near the pituitary gland and the optic nerve. Tumors can cause visual issues and dysfunction of the pituitary gland.
Symptoms of meningiomas
Symptoms of meningiomas grow slowly as the tumor grows and presses on the brain or spinal cord.
Varies on the size and location of the meningiomas can differ in symptoms. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Headaches
- Seizures
- Blurred vision
- Weakness in the arms and legs
- Numbness
- Loss of balance
- Hearing loss
- Memory loss
Risk factors for meningioma
Some of the common risks for meningioma include:
- Age
- Gender
- Radiation exposure
- Race/ethnicity
Cost of meningioma in India
The cost of meningiomas in India is affordable and cost affected compared to other nations. There's no doubt that Western countries offer great medical facilities, but it's also true that India provides similar treatments at much more affordable prices.
However, the overall cost of the treatment may vary depending on several factors. These factors include the surgeon’s expertise, the type of implant, the location of the hospital, and more.
Summary
Meninges are the layer of tissue that protects the brain and spinal cord. A meningioma is a brain tumor that develops in meninges. Meningiomas start from cells made up of particular arachnoid cells which are found in a thin, web-like layer that covers the brain and spinal cord.
