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Meningioma originates from meningeal epithelial (arachnoid cap) cells and is the most common benign intracranial tumor. It is non-glial in origin, grows slowly, and is often adherent to the dura mater. It typically affects the brain by compression rather than infiltrative invasion.
1. WHO grade 1 (benign meningioma)
Accounts for approximately 80% of cases, with slow growth and favorable prognosis. Subtypes include meningothelial, fibrous, transitional, and psammomatous meningiomas.
2. WHO grade 2 (atypical meningioma)
Accounts for approximately 15%–20% of cases and carries a higher risk of recurrence. Subtypes include chordoid and clear cell meningiomas, and increased mitotic activity is characteristic.
3. WHO grade 3 (anaplastic/malignant meningioma)
Accounts for approximately 1%–3% of cases and shows overt malignant features, including marked cellular atypia, necrosis, and high mitotic activity, with a tendency for recurrence and metastasis.
Molecular classification is evolving and may help refine prognostic assessment and guide treatment.
1. Ionizing radiation
A prior history of head and neck radiotherapy is a well-established risk factor. Higher radiation doses confer higher risk, and the latency period may extend for decades.
2. Genetic factors
NF2 mutations are associated with multiple meningiomas, and other rare hereditary syndromes may also increase risk.
3. Hormonal influences
Meningiomas are more common in women, and some tumors express estrogen and progesterone receptors, suggesting that hormones may promote tumor growth.
4. Other potential factors
Hypotheses such as trauma and viral infection lack sufficient evidence. Most cases are sporadic with no clearly defined cause.
Jinshazhou Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine emphasizes that although most meningiomas are benign, mass effect can cause complications such as seizures and neurological deficits. Gross total resection is the preferred treatment, stereotactic radiosurgery provides a minimally invasive option, and stable small tumors can be managed with surveillance. An MDT-based approach is essential to optimize outcomes while preserving quality of life.
Meningioma originates from meningeal epithelial (arachnoid cap) cells and is the most common benign intracranial tumor. It is non-glial in origin, grows slowly, and is often adherent to the dura mater. It typically affects the brain by compression rather than infiltrative invasion.
1. WHO grade 1 (benign meningioma)
Accounts for approximately 80% of cases, with slow growth and favorable prognosis. Subtypes include meningothelial, fibrous, transitional, and psammomatous meningiomas.
2. WHO grade 2 (atypical meningioma)
Accounts for approximately 15%–20% of cases and carries a higher risk of recurrence. Subtypes include chordoid and clear cell meningiomas, and increased mitotic activity is characteristic.
3. WHO grade 3 (anaplastic/malignant meningioma)
Accounts for approximately 1%–3% of cases and shows overt malignant features, including marked cellular atypia, necrosis, and high mitotic activity, with a tendency for recurrence and metastasis.
Molecular classification is evolving and may help refine prognostic assessment and guide treatment.
1. Ionizing radiation
A prior history of head and neck radiotherapy is a well-established risk factor. Higher radiation doses confer higher risk, and the latency period may extend for decades.
2. Genetic factors
NF2 mutations are associated with multiple meningiomas, and other rare hereditary syndromes may also increase risk.
3. Hormonal influences
Meningiomas are more common in women, and some tumors express estrogen and progesterone receptors, suggesting that hormones may promote tumor growth.
4. Other potential factors
Hypotheses such as trauma and viral infection lack sufficient evidence. Most cases are sporadic with no clearly defined cause.
Jinshazhou Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine emphasizes that although most meningiomas are benign, mass effect can cause complications such as seizures and neurological deficits. Gross total resection is the preferred treatment, stereotactic radiosurgery provides a minimally invasive option, and stable small tumors can be managed with surveillance. An MDT-based approach is essential to optimize outcomes while preserving quality of life.