Pathophysiology of meningiomas

This article provides a brief description of the current knowledge of meningioma tumorigenesis and biology. Meningioma grade, subtyping, histology, and MIB-1 labeling index are discussed in relationship to tumor behavior and recurrence prediction. Chromosomal abnormalities associated with meningioma development are discussed with an emphasis on chromosome 22 and the neurofibromatosis type 2 gene. The current knowledge of prognostic features of 1p deletions is outlined. The role of sex hormones in meningioma growth and development is also discussed and summarized. To date, treatment regimens based on inhibiting hormonally mediated meningioma growth have been disappointing. Research concerning growth factors and peptide hormones that have been implicated in meningioma tumorigenesis is discussed. It is hoped that further understanding of the biology of meningioma development, growth, and angiogenesis will lead to new successful treatments for refractory meningiomas.