Watching a Meningioma Brain Tumor

Yes, your oncologist will tell you the risks of invading some vital part of your brain. The problem of cancer is the rapid multiplications of the cells.

Why? If it kept growing, wouldn’t that cause more problems?

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.

Why? If it kept growing, wouldn’t that cause more problems?

Robin, Have you gotten any response to your question about the meningioma/ I just had one removed and it is looking like the worst decision of my life

That is wonderful news. Best of luck for your future.

I understand. I am in a Facebook group called Meningioma Talk. It is a private group. It is amazing how many stories there are. You hear of people that have had a tumor for years with no growth and then it will suddenly grow. Or people that have had no growth for 10 years or more. Or people that have growth within 3-6 months. It’s all new to me. Waiting is difficult. But I want to avoid surgery if I can. Thanks for your response.

Hi, I was in the same position. Left side Sphenoid Wing Meningioma, growing over my optical nerve as well. (6.4cm x 3.4cm 7.7cm). I started to have speech problems and in my left eye sometimes sharp pain. So I decided to do my second surgery (first surgery 2012) on 1/7/2020 here in Los Angeles. I was scared about my eye side and so other issue which could create a brain surgery, like you mentioned. When I woke up, after a 7 hour surgery, I couldn't believe I could see everything better, after 2 ½ days in the hospital they released, me due to the fact that I was "top-fit". I am so happy I did it. I am 67 years old myself but I did have problems and therefore had to consider the operation. I do know it is a difficult decision....good luck to you!!!

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!: