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What is Meningioma?

A meningioma is a tumour that develops from the meninges, the membranes enveloping the brain and spinal cord. Although it may pressure the surrounding brain, nerves, and veins, a meningioma is not a brain tumour. The most common type of tumour that develops in the head is meningioma.

The majority of meningiomas develop relatively slowly. They may develop without showing any symptoms over many years. However, they may sometimes seriously impair surrounding brain tissue, nerves, or arteries.

What is the Importance of Timely Treatment?

Early meningioma treatment depends on reducing prognosis, neurological consequences, and tumour growth. Early treatment reduces headaches, seizures, and intellectual impairment with treatment by radiation therapy or surgery that also prevents permanent brain damage. Improved quality of life and more significant potential for complete recovery are long-term benefits of the tumour's earlier treatment before the tumour gets large or becomes malignant. This also makes the removal more likely to be successful and decreases the risk of recurrence.

What are the Common Symptoms of Meningioma?

Meningioma symptoms tend to begin slowly. Initially, they may be hard to detect. The position of the meningioma in the brain can influence the symptoms. In some instances, it can be in the spine. Symptoms may include:

  • Changes in vision, such as blurring or double vision.
  • Worse morning headaches.
  • Ringing in the ears or hearing loss.
  • Loss of memory.
  • Loss of odours.
  • Seizures.
  • Weakness in either the arms or legs.
  • Difficulty speaking.

Causes and Risk Factors of Meningioma

Causes

  • The aetiology of meningioma is unknown. However, specialists know that some meningeal cells are changed, causing them to grow uncontrollably and form a meningioma.
  • The single environmental risk factor known for meningioma is exposure to childhood radiation.

Risk Factors

  • Age
  • Gender
  • Radiation Exposure
  • Genetic Factors
  • Hormonal Factors
  • Underlying Medical Conditions

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Latest Research and Technologies in the Treatment of Meningioma in Singapore

Current advancements in treating meningioma in Singapore illustrate the country's commitment to integrating innovative surgical techniques with radiosurgical modalities. The efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery in managing challenging tumour locations was underscored by a study involving 295 patients with residual Grade I meningiomas, which reported a tumour control rate of 94.5%. In addition, research on giant cerebral meningiomas has enhanced surgical procedures; in 19% of cases, Simpson grade I resection was achieved, highlighting the complexity of these tumours.

Treatment options for Meningioma

Surgery is the most frequent treatment for symptomatic or large meningiomas. Its goal is to remove as much of the tumour as possible, mainly if it compresses the brain or spinal cord.

Radiation Therapy: Utilized when surgery is not feasible following surgery to decrease the risk of recurrence or in inoperable tumours. Stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife) is usually employed to destroy small tumours permanently.

Gamma Knife is stereotactic radiosurgery with highly focused radiation directed at treating meningiomas where surgery is not feasible or the tumour cannot be surgically removed. Gamma Knife delivers accurately targeted high doses of radiation directly to the tumour with minimal impact on adjacent brain tissue.


Cost Start From USD 60000 - USD 70000Explore Options

Brachytherapy: Radiotherapy, also known as brachytherapy, treats numerous malignancies. During treatment, radioactive seeds, capsules, or implants are placed surgically inside or near the tumour.


Cost Start From USD 3000 - USD 0Explore Options

  • MRI is the most successful and widely used imaging method for diagnosing meningiomas. It creates detailed brain and spinal cord images that reveal any surrounding tissue's size, location, and encroachment.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: In the absence of or if MRI is unsuitable for the patient, a CT scan is often used to identify malignancies, particularly in emergencies.
  • PositronEmissionTomography(PET)Scan: This imaging technique appropriately assesses metabolic activity and tumour growth, helping to determine the tumour's aggressiveness.
  • Biopsy: To confirm the diagnosis and determine whether the tumour is benign or malignant, a tissue sample can be removed from it through either surgery or needle biopsy.

MediRehab (a chain of rehabilitation centres—part of MediGence) provides comprehensive rehabilitation services to support patients through Teleconsultations and online therapy sessions.

  • Physical Therapy: To assist the patient in restoring strength, enhancing mobility, and regaining motor skills if the tumour impacts movement or coordination.
  • OccupationalTherapy assists patients in daily activities and restores independence, particularly if the tumour has affected fine motor skills or cognitive function.
  • Speech and Language Therapy: For patients with speech, language, or swallowing problems, speech therapy may assist with swallowing and communication disorders.
  • CognitiveRehabilitation: Cognitive therapy could restore memory, attention, or executive functioning if the tumour or its treatment impaired these psychological processes.
  • Neuropsychological Support: To deal with emotional, psychological, or behavioural modifications produced by the tumour or its therapy, such as anxiety, depression, or alterations in personality.
  • Depending on the situation, your healthcare professional may prescribe medicine to help control your symptoms and support the treatment plan.

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Hospitals for Meningioma in Singapore

Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital

Novena, Singapore

Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital located in Novena, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Capacity of 333 beds
  • Intensive Care Unit beds
  • Endoscopy beds
  • Day ward with 20 beds
  • 13 Operating Theatres, which includes 1 Neurological operating room, 2 Cardiac operating rooms, 4 Orthopaedic operating rooms, etc.
  • High Dependency Unit (HDU)
  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • 24/7 Accident & Emergency Department
  • Maternity ward
  • 1 major operating unit with 13 operating rooms inclusive of 1 hybrid theatre
  • In-house Pharmacy
  • Rooms are categorized as Single Signature Rooms, Junior Suite and Regal Suite
  • All patient rooms are equipped with electric safe, LCD, sofa cum bed, wardrobe, radio channels, and much more
Parkway East Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Parkway East Hospital

Singapore, Singapore

Parkway East Hospital located in Joo Chiat Pl, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • Total capacity for 143 beds
  • Hospital rooms are available- Single room, 2-bedded room (8), 4-bedded room (2), Deluxe room, and Orchid/Hibiscus Suite
  • All rooms are equipped with all ensuite facilities like Free wifi, mini fridge, sofa couch, telephone, in-room safe, TV, etc.
  • Maternity wards- Accredited as a baby-friendly hospital under the World Health Organisations Baby-Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI)
  • 1 Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with 14 cots
  • Intensive Care Unit
  • 1 Operation Theatre with 5 Operating rooms
  • 1 Nursery with 30 cots
  • 1 Parentcraft room
  • 24-hour walk-in-clinic (for emergency)
  • 24-hour Pharmacy
Mount Elizabeth Hospital: Top Doctors, and Reviews
Mount Elizabeth Hospital

Singapore, Singapore

Mount Elizabeth Hospital located in Singapore, Singapore is accredited by JCI. Also listed below are some of the most prominent infrastructural details:

  • 345 bedded Hospital
  • Maternity wards
  • The Mount Elizabeth Patient Assistance Centre (MPAC)
  • 1 major operating unit with 12 operating rooms and 1 operating theatre dedicated to in vitro fertilisation (IVF)
  • Intensive Care Unit
  • High Dependency Unit (HDU)
  • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU)
  • Accident & Emergency Department
  • Rooms are categorized as Single rooms, 2-bedded rooms, 4-bedded rooms, Executive deluxe suite, Daffodil/Magnolia suite, VIP Room, and Royal Suite
  • All patient rooms are equipped with electric safe, LCD, sofa cum bed, wardrobe, radio channels, and much more
  • Parking lot

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Why Choose Singapore for Meningioma Treatment?

Singapore is a Desirable destination for meningioma treatment due to its world-class medical centres, experienced neurosurgeons, and advanced machines such as the Gamma Knife and CyberKnife. The country has personalised care based on every patient and cost-effective treatment options without compromising quality.

Frequently Asked Questions

In Singapore, Meningiomas are not continuously operated on. It is generally recommended if the tumour is large, expanding rapidly, or symptomatic because such situations can interfere with brain function or lead to neurological issues. Still, doctors will opt for regular imaging and surveillance if the tumour is small, expanding slowly, and asymptomatic. Other treatments, such as radiation therapy, can be considered in cases where surgery is not safe or feasible. Several factors, such as the health of the patient and the tumour size and location, affect the decision.

Radiation therapy is used to treat meningiomas where surgery is impossible or to prevent the tumour from recurring after surgery. It benefits malignancies that are hard to reach or recur following removal. The treatment uses focused beams of radiation to slow down or prevent the growth of the tumour. A less invasive alternative to surgery, it may also be used for slow-growing, small, asymptomatic tumours. Radiation therapy suppresses any symptoms and controls the tumour.

In fact, after treatment, meningiomas can recur, especially if they were not entirely removed or were malignant or atypical. Aggressive tumours with large sizes or those that are difficult to access tend to recur. Recurrent atypical (grade II) and malignant (grade III) meningiomas are more frequent than benign ones. To reduce the risk of recurrence, radiation therapy can be given even after surgery. Regular imaging follow-up is sometimes needed to look for any sign of regrowth.

In Singapore, meningioma treatment is usually successful, mainly if early diagnosis and advanced surgical techniques are employed. The position of the tumour, its size, and whether it is malignant or benign determine how effective a treatment is. Advanced facilities, well-trained surgeons, and customised treatment result in high recovery and good outcomes for most patients, particularly when appropriate follow-up care and rehabilitation are administered.

Meningiomas can cause seizures, mainly if the tumour is located in or near brain areas that control electrical activity. The growth of the tumour can press on surrounding brain tissue, disrupting normal brain function and potentially causing seizures. Seizures are common in patients with meningioma, mainly if the tumour is large or located in an area such as the frontal or temporal lobes.

A balanced diet, consistent light exercise, stress-reduction methods, and enough sleep may improve general health throughout meningioma treatment. Avoiding alcohol and tobacco use can also improve health, and routine medical exams are necessary to monitor tumour progression or recurrence. A few lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and improve healing.

Depending on the patient's size, location, and overall condition, it may take several weeks to several months to heal after meningioma surgery in Singapore. Most patients can resume normal activities in 4–5 weeks, though full recovery may take longer if additional therapies such as radiation are required. Rehabilitation and postoperative follow-ups are essential for monitoring progress and ensuring complete recovery.

A diagnosis of a person with a meningioma typically has a good prognosis for benign (grade I) tumours, which boast a high success rate of survival and usually cause complete recovery once treated. Whilst atypical (grade II) and malignant (grade III) meningiomas are more predisposed to relapse and, in some cases, can require additional therapy, most individuals can recover if given the proper treatment. The size, position, grade, extent of resection, and overall patient health all influence the overall prognosis.

Yes, you can get a second opinion on Meningioma treatment in Singapore through MediGence. With MediGence, you can connect with highly experienced professionals from top hospitals in Singapore who can provide additional information regarding your diagnosis and treatment options. The platform provides easy access to professional help, enabling you to make informed healthcare choices and receive the best care possible.

To find a certified cancer specialist, search MediGence’s website, which offers a list of top-class and internationally trained oncologists from Singapore's best hospitals. Through MediGence, you can search for specialists' profiles, review their credentials, experience, and ratings, and book online consultations. To receive the best care for your condition, the website also helps you find the best hospitals and provides personalised assistance tailored to your health needs.