Meningioma: Anyone else? I'm frightened

I was diagnosed with meningioma 2 and a half years ago. They were confirming a torn retina and found the tumor by chance. Yes they are almost always benign. I was just having mine monitored annually with MRI, no growth until 2 months ago and now I have to have it removed. I totally understand the fear that you feel when they tell you that you have a brain tumor. But it truly can be managed and may never cause you any problems. My advice is find a good neurosurgeon that you trust and follow their advice.

I also had a crani for my first meningiomas in 2002. Back then I was in the hospital at least 4 days. Now, it is only about a 2 night stay. Seems crazy when you think of brain tumor doesn’t it!? Last year I had Gamma Knife for another tumor (I should add that I’ve had several watch and wait tumors over the years ((maybe 5)) but the one last year they seemed to think it was growing.) so, I did have Gamma Knife which allowed me to be home by noon. I would never minimize your feelings about a meningioma! Some are too large for gamma so you must have a crani. I would ask your NS to discuss your options.

I had Meningioma surgery in February. The surgeon said he got it out. I had rehab for ten days also. Things went very well. It takes time to fully recover. You won’t even know if you have surgery.

Have you asked about Gamma Knife Ray Surgery? That was one of the options I was given. It is non invasive but has to be done by a neurosurgeon trained in it. Just an idea.
Good luck

I was diagnosed with meningioma in 2022 and it was scary to hear brain tumor. My neurosurgeon suggested we monitor with annual MRI and if no growth we can just leave it alone. In May 2024 the MRI showed that it was growing, now I'm doing a lot of research to determine best type of treatment. My current neurosurgeon wants to do a craniotomy. It's a scary thought but this support group is helpful. Good luck in your journey.

Elisabeth, I had a craniotomy/brain surgery 7 months ago to remove a 2.7 centimeter meningioma. It was not as bad as I had imagined it to be. I left the operating room on prescription pain meds of some sort, but after that I was just on tylenol every 8 hours while in the hospital for 2 days. Once at home, I didn't take tylenol at all. The worst part was the stress I endured worrying about it before the surgery.

i have a meningoma that was found on an MRI about 8 years ago. i have had at most minor symptoms eg mild to moderate headaches

i have had a meningoma for almost a decade that apparently has recently changed. i’m seeing a neurosurgeon next week. please share what it’s like to have a meningoma biopsied and surgically removed

Yes gamma knife is the one they mold a mask to your face. I’ve had repeated meningiomas and gamma knife over the past 5 years. It stops the growth and I do receive MRI’s every 6 months so all are monitored for any signs of regrowth. Stay positive it’s the best way to heal and keep moving forward, my very best to you.

Well I’ve yet to meet with neuro surgeons but shall update. All the best to everyone & thankyou for replies.