Meningioma Causes and Risk Factors

Meningiomas are tumors that develop in the protective membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord (meninges). Most meningiomas are benign and slow-growing. However, due to their proximity to critical and sensitive neural structures, even small, noncancerous brain and spinal cord tumors can cause disruptive neurological symptoms, such as headaches, vision problems, seizures, memory loss, limb weakness, balance difficulties and personality changes.

Treatment for meningioma can vary based on its location, size, growth rate and symptoms. For a slow-growing, asymptomatic tumor, a wait-and-watch approach may be sufficient. Other options can include surgery to remove the tumor or radiation therapy to control its growth. Medications may also be used to manage certain symptoms, such as seizures.

Meningioma is the most common type of primary brain tumor, accounting for approximately 30% of all cases.

What causes meningioma?

Meningioma occurs when cells in the meninges undergo harmful genetic mutations. Approximately 80% of meningiomas have an abnormality on chromosome 22, which contains a gene that helps regulate cell growth, particularly in the meninges. A gene mutation or deletion in chromosome 22 can lead to a loss of tumor-suppressing function, allowing cells in the meninges to grow uncontrollably and form masses.

What are the risk factors for meningioma?

Scientists do not yet fully understand the precise triggers of the gene mutations that lead to the development of meningioma. However, through extensive research, they have identified several risk factors.

Meningioma risk factors that cannot be controlled

Some risk factors for meningioma cannot be controlled. These include:

• Advanced age – Meningioma predominantly affects older adults, particularly those over 60.
• Genetic predisposition – Scientists have linked certain inherited conditions, such as neurofibromatosis type 2 (NF2), schwannomatosis and multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1 (MEN1), to benign central nervous system tumors, including meningiomas.

Meningioma risk factors that can be controlled

Other risk factors for meningioma can be controlled to a certain extent, such as:

• Radiation exposure – Prior radiation therapy delivered to the head or neck, particularly during childhood, can increase the risk of brain tumors, including meningiomas.
• Hormonal fluctuations – Meningioma cells often have hormone receptors and tend to multiply when exposed to female hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone, which can increase during a woman’s menstrual cycle, pregnancy or hormone replacement therapy.
• Obesity – A high body mass index (BMI) is a risk factor for many types of cancerous and benign tumors.

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Can meningioma be prevented?

Although meningioma cannot be completely prevented, it may be possible to reduce the risk by taking certain proactive steps, such as:

• Limiting radiation exposure – Avoiding unnecessary radiation therapy delivered to the head or neck for medical treatment
• Managing hormones – Limiting the use of hormone replacement therapy for menopause symptoms
• Maintaining a healthy body weight – Losing weight to reduce inflammation, balance hormone levels, improve immune function and enhance overall health

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about meningioma causes and risk factors

The following FAQs-related article provides additional information about meningioma causes and risk factors:

• Are meningiomas hereditary?

Benefit from world-class care at Moffitt Cancer Center

Every day, Moffitt’s brain tumor research team learns more about meningioma causes and risk factors. In addition to investigating the cellular changes that trigger tumor development, we are also exploring ways to reprogram malfunctioning brain cells. By offering novel treatment options, such as immunotherapies and hormone therapies, through our robust portfolio of clinical trials, we are continually improving patient outcomes and quality of life.

If you would like to learn more about meningioma causes and risk factors, you can request an appointment with a brain tumor specialist in our Neuro-Oncology Program by calling 1-888-663-3488 or submitting a new patient registration form online. We do not require referrals.