Treatment For Meningioma

Meningioma is a type of tumor that develops in the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal chord. While meningioma is not actually a brain tumor, it is often classified as one because it poses serious implications to the brain as well as surrounding blood vessels and nerves. According to multiple sources, this is the most common type of tumor that develops in the head. There are many different types of treatment for meningioma, and the type chosen depends on various factors including the tumor size, its growth rate, its location, and the patient's age and general health.

Observational Approach

One treatment method for meningioma is known as the observational approach, occasionally referred to as the wait-and-see, watchful waiting, or active surveillance approach. This treatment method is most often used for elderly patients or for patients who have developed tiny and slow-growing tumors that are not yet presenting any symptoms. If the observational approach is chosen, the patient will need to undergo periodic brain scans to ensure the meningioma is not growing. During a scheduled brain scan, if the patient's doctor finds the tumor has begun growing, new treatment options may be discussed.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy is an innovative treatment method that utilizes high-energy x-rays or minute particles to destroy cancer cells. This treatment method is often used along with surgical procedures to remove particularly aggressive tumors, and is usually conducted according to a specific schedule and can be administered in one of several different ways. However, these methods can be classified into two separate categories: internal and external. In internal radiation therapy, tiny radioactive pellets are implanted near the tumor. In external therapy, a special machine is used to direct radioactive beams to the tumor avoiding healthy tissues.

Surgery

Various surgical procedures may be performed on meningioma depending on the size of the tumor and where it is located. As stated in an article published by Weill Cornell Brain and Spine Center, these types of surgery are best performed by trained neurosurgeons who have experience in treating meningioma and other forms of brain tumors. In most cases, a biopsy will be conducted before surgically removing the tumor. In some instances, the biopsy may be done at the same time as the removal surgery. Using traditional surgical methods (known as resection), the surgeon will remove as much of the tumor as possible.

Chemotherapy

Although chemotherapy, is not a common treatment for meningioma, it can be beneficial in some cases. Instances in which it may be used to treat meningioma include patients who do not want to undergo surgical procedures and cases in which the tumor cannot be safely removed because it is too close to the spinal chord. Traditional chemotherapy destroys any abnormal, rapidly reproducing cells. However, since meningioma develops slowly, traditional is not always effective. Because of this, new drugs such as Sandostatin, hydroxyurea, or Interferon-alpha 2B are used instead.

Alternative Medicine

There has been little research done to determine whether or not alternative medicine is effective in the treatment and eradication of brain tumors. However, alternative treatments and medicines can help to relieve some of the stress and discomforts associated with meningioma. Common herbs and teas used to treat meningioma include green and ginger tea, papain tea, milk thistle, and cat's claw. Foods known to provide some relief for meningioma sufferers include lemons, garlic, onions, and celery. Some typical alternative treatments include acupuncture, meditation, music therapy, and exercise.