Incidental Meningiomas: Management in the Neuroimaging Era

Neurosurg Clin N Am. 2016 Apr;27(2):229-38. doi: 10.1016/j.nec.2015.11.012.

Abstract

The number of patient imaging studies has increased because of precautious physicians ordering scans when a vague symptom is presented; subsequently, the number of incidental meningiomas detected has increased as well. These brain tumors do not present with related symptoms and are usually small. MRI and computed tomographic scans most frequently capture incidental meningiomas. Incidental meningiomas are managed with observation, radiation, and surgical resection. Ultimately, a conservative approach is recommended, such as observing an incidental meningioma and then only radiating if the tumor displays growth, whereas a surgical approach is to be used only when proven necessary.

Keywords: Computed tomography; MRI; Meningiomas; Neuroimaging.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Brain Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Brain Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Combined Modality Therapy
  • Humans
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / diagnostic imaging*
  • Meningeal Neoplasms / therapy*
  • Meningioma / diagnostic imaging*
  • Meningioma / therapy*
  • Middle Aged
  • Neuroimaging / methods*
  • Tomography, Emission-Computed, Single-Photon / methods
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods
  • Treatment Outcome