Watching a Meningioma Brain Tumor

Posted by robinem @robinem, Feb 8, 2018

I've just been diagnosed with a 2cm meningioma tumor on the right front of my head. I am 59 years old and the surgeon has told me I will need to "do something" with my tumor someday since I am younger. What is the benefit of waiting?

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sanderjakidd | @sanderjakidd | Jan 7, 2020

In reply to @cyndymc "Hi I am having symptoms but I would not have surgery unless things were a lot..." + (show)

I would wait if your meningioma is not growing. My PCP said there is so much risk with any type of brain surgery. If I start having symptoms I am sure it would be a big decision. About a month ago my husband asked me if I wanted to have surgery if I was unable to make the decision (incapacitated) and I was having symptoms. I said yes.

Lisa Lucier, Moderator | @lisalucier | Jan 7, 2020

In reply to @deblee "They are not sure but the NS sent me to an ENT who could also not..." + (show)

How did the full spine and brain MRI go, @deblee?

tonj657716 | @tonj657716 | Jan 6, 2020

In reply to @cyndymc "Hi I am having symptoms but I would not have surgery unless things were a lot..." + (show)

I had surgery on October 24th I am starting to feel better! For me surgery was what was recommended because of size and location! I wish you luck in whatever you choose! I feel better no headaches my arm and shoulder and leg pain is better pretty much all my problems are getting better!:

cyndymc | @cyndymc | Jan 5, 2020

In reply to @sanderjakidd "I am on the watch and wait regimen also. Incidental discovery when they were ruling out..." + (show)

Hi I am having symptoms but I would not have surgery unless things were a lot worse. Some days can be difficult.

sanderjakidd | @sanderjakidd | Jan 5, 2020

In reply to @cyndymc "The benefit of waiting is , I am told this may never grow, and brain surgery..." + (show)

I am on the watch and wait regimen also. Incidental discovery when they were ruling out tumors for tinnitus. No symptoms. It’s been a year and a half. Having my third MRI soon. No change from first to second. My meningioma is a left side convexity 3cm x 2cm x 1 1/2 cm. I saw a neurosurgeon recommended by my primary care physician. I went back to my PCP and asked if there was anyway I could get a Mayo consult. My hospital has an agreement with the Mayo Clinic so she was able to get me a free consult. She did all the leg work. Their interpretation was the same as my neurosurgeon. Since no symptoms and so far not growing wait and watch. I could have it removed because it is an easy removal spot but my PCP said it’s brain surgery so don’t do it if you don't have to. I’m 67 years old. There are new technology medical treatments being used and perfected every year. This is why waiting can be good if you aren’t having symptoms. I hope I won’t need surgery.

sarasally2 | @sarasally2 | Jan 5, 2020

In reply to @lisalucier "@sarasally2 - since you used the term "housebound," it sounds like you'd prefer to be out..." + (show)

because of the dizziness and vertigo I can't drive so am pretty much stuck inside. I have tests coming up in the next few weeks and see the surgeon but for a year I have tried PT, several meds, I don't do well taking meds so try to stay busy inside. They don't have much to offer.

Lisa Lucier, Moderator | @lisalucier | Jan 5, 2020

In reply to @sarasally2 "I am on a wait and see program, been a year and am due for another..." + (show)

@sarasally2 - since you used the term "housebound," it sounds like you'd prefer to be out and about some outside of your home. Do you have an appointment with any of your doctors coming up where you could ask directly about how you might manage some specific symptoms?

cyndymc | @cyndymc | Jan 4, 2020

In reply to @deblee "Are you having balance issues? I am in SC." + (show)

No balance issues.

sarasally2 | @sarasally2 | Jan 4, 2020

In reply to @cyndymc "The benefit of waiting is , I am told this may never grow, and brain surgery..." + (show)

I am on a wait and see program, been a year and am due for another MRI this month, I am in NC and go to Duke. My age and health issues are not helping. We shall see what happens but so far no one has addressed the symptoms. So I am house bound most of the time