Meningioma - Erler Zimmer

Meningioma - Erler Zimmer

Clinical History

A 68-year-old female, initially diagnosed with epilepsy due to recent-onset seizures, exhibited a gradual change in personality. Unfortunately, she succumbed to a myocardial infarction several months later.

Pathology

This horizontally sliced brain specimen displays a well-circumscribed 6cm tumor situated between the two frontal lobes. The tumor exerts compression on the frontal lobes, featuring a pinkish cut surface with some yellow areas indicating necrosis. Anteriorly, it was attached to the dura mater. This tumor is identified as a meningioma.

Further Information

Meningiomas, often considered the most common tumors of the central nervous system, originate from the meninges (dura, arachnoid, and pia). While predominantly slow-growing and benign, symptoms depend on the tumor's location and growth rate. Common manifestations include seizures, altered mental state, sensory changes, and signs of increased intracranial pressure. Treatment options range from observation to surgery or radiotherapy, tailored to the clinical context and tumor characteristics.

Meningiomas are rare in children, typically diagnosed around the age of 65, with a higher incidence in females. Factors such as ionizing radiation exposure and neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2) genetic predisposition can increase the risk of meningioma development.