Meningioma

Meningioma: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment – and How to Get Expert Care

When most people think of brain tumors, they often imagine the worst. But not all brain tumors are the same. In fact, the most common type is called a meningioma — and while it can still be serious, many meningiomas are treatable, especially when detected early.

In this article, we’ll explain what meningiomas are, how they’re diagnosed and treated, and why many patients are now choosing to travel to Germany for world-class care through trusted partners like WEGOVITA.

What Is a Meningioma?

A meningioma is a tumor that arises from the meninges — the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord. While it is technically a brain tumor, a meningioma doesn’t grow from brain tissue itself. That’s why many of these tumors grow slowly and can often be removed successfully.

Key facts:

• Meningiomas account for about 1 in 3 brain tumors

• They are usually benign (non-cancerous)

• Most commonly affect women over the age of 40

• Can occur in the brain or spinal cord

What Causes Meningiomas?

The exact cause of meningiomas is still unknown, but several risk factors have been identified:

• Radiation exposure, especially to the head

• Hormonal factors (more common in women; may grow during pregnancy)

• Genetic conditions such as Neurofibromatosis Type 2 (NF2)

• Age – risk increases with age, typically seen in middle-aged and older adults

Symptoms of Meningioma

Because meningiomas grow slowly, they often don’t cause symptoms right away. But as they grow and press on surrounding brain structures, symptoms may appear. These can include:

• Persistent headaches

• Vision problems (blurry or double vision)

• Hearing loss or ringing in the ears

• Seizures

• Memory issues or personality changes

• Weakness or numbness in limbs (if spinal cord is affected)

How Is a Meningioma Diagnosed?

Diagnosis usually begins with a neurological exam followed by imaging tests:

• MRI or CT scan to visualize the tumor’s size and location

• Biopsy (in some cases) to confirm the tumor type

Doctors also use grading systems to classify meningiomas:

• Grade I: Benign – most common and slow-growing

• Grade II: Atypical – faster-growing, may recur

• Grade III: Malignant – rare, aggressive, likely to come back after treatment

How Are Meningiomas Treated?

Treatment depends on the tumor’s size, location, growth rate, and whether it’s causing symptoms.

1. Watchful Waiting

For small, symptom-free tumors, doctors may recommend “active surveillance” with regular MRIs to monitor growth.

2. Surgery

When removal is possible, surgery is often the first choice — especially for accessible, benign tumors. A complete resection can often cure the condition.

3. Radiation Therapy

Radiation, including stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife, CyberKnife), may be used:

• After surgery to reduce recurrence

• When surgery isn’t an option

• For higher-grade meningiomas

4. Medications

There are currently no widely approved drugs specifically for meningiomas, but clinical trials are ongoing — particularly for atypical and malignant types.

What’s the Prognosis?

For most patients with a Grade I meningioma, the outlook is excellent. With complete surgical removal, the risk of recurrence is low, and many patients return to a normal life.

Higher-grade or difficult-to-remove tumors may require long-term monitoring and additional treatment, but new therapies are improving outcomes.

Why Choose Germany for Meningioma Treatment?

Germany is known worldwide for its excellence in neurosurgery and oncology. Patients choose Germany for:

• Access to leading neurosurgeons and specialized hospitals

• Advanced imaging and minimally invasive surgical techniques

• Cutting-edge radiosurgery options

• Multidisciplinary care with neurology, oncology, and rehabilitation specialists

WEGOVITA: Your Partner in Accessing Brain Tumor Care in Germany

At WEGOVITA, we understand that dealing with a brain tumor like meningioma is overwhelming — and navigating treatment abroad can be complex. That’s why we provide comprehensive medical travel services, connecting international patients with top-tier neurosurgical centers in Germany.

With WEGOVITA, you get:

• Fast-track access to consultations and second opinions

• Full support with travel, visas, accommodation, and translation

• Personalized care coordination with Germany’s best hospitals

Whether you’re seeking a second opinion, advanced surgical treatment, or simply want peace of mind, WEGOVITA is here to make your journey to healing as smooth as possible.

Ready to Explore Treatment in Germany?

Contact WEGOVITA today for a free consultation and start planning your path to expert meningioma care in one of Europe’s top medical destinations.