Meningioma Neurological Symptoms

Meningioma neurological symptoms are found in the meninges of the brain or spinal cord. Meningiomas are tumors that are often found in clusters. The meninges of the brain is the thin membrane that surrounds the brain and resides between the brain and the skull. Although approximately 90 percent of meningioma tumors are considered to be benign, they can cause considerable damage and problems because as they grow, they may press against the brain, resulting in physical symptoms. The location of the meningioma often is a determining factor in what types of symptoms appear.

Falx and Parasagittal

• Meningioma neurological symptoms are often discovered when the tumors appear in the falx and prasagittal location of the brain. According to Brigham and Women's Hospital, the falx is the blood vessel that runs along the groove between the two sides of the brain from front to back. Approximately 25 percent of meningioma tumors are found in this location of the brain. The most common symptom for this type of tumor includes weakness of both legs.

Convexity

• Convexity meningioma neurological symptoms are often experienced in areas that are located on the front of the brain. According to Brigham and Woman's Hospital, very often symptoms are not noticeable until the tumors or lesions have reached a large size. These symptoms include seizures, headaches or deficits in the ability to focus or concentrate. The front of the brain contains the frontal lobes which control judgment, personality and the ability to make decisions. Approximately 20 percent of meningioma tumors occur in this area of the brain membrane.

Sphenoid

• Sphenoid meningioma neurological symptoms are the result of tumors that are located in the membrane directly behind the eyes. According to Brigham and Women's Hospital, common symptoms can include visual problems, such as blurring for both distance and close up, facial numbness and loss of sensation in the face. Approximately 20 percent of meningioma tumors occur in this location of the brain membrane. Often these tumors involve significant blockage of blood flow to the face and brain and may be difficult to treat.

Olfactory Groove

• Olfactory groove meningioma neurological symptoms are the result of tumors that are located in the olfactory area of the skull and brain. They are usually located between the brain and the nose. According to Brigham and Women's Hospital, approximately 10 percent of meningioma tumors occur in this location. Often, symptoms include problems with the sense of smell. Since the olfactory nerve is located close to the optical nerve near the face, meningioma tumors pressing against the optical nerve can also result in visual symptoms including problems with loss of vision in patches or blindness. Additionally, as tumors become large, symptoms can include changes in mental status, such as changes in personality, irritability or difficulty making decisions or choices.

Posterior Fossa

• Posterior fossa meningioma neurological symptoms occur when the tumors are located on the bottom surface of the brain. According to Brigham and Women's Hospital, approximately 10 percent of meningioma tumors occur in this location. There are several symptoms that can appear if tumors appear in this part of the membrane that surrounds the brain. Sharp pain and spasms of the face can result if the tumors press against the cranial nerves. Loss of hearing can also result from this kind of pressure. Other symptoms can include loss of balance and headaches.