Spinal Meningioma Tumor

Spinal meningioma tumors are typically benign (noncancerous) growths that develop along the thoracic (mid-back) region of the spine. However, in rare cases, these tumors can be malignant (cancerous) and may spread to the brain or other organs.

Although benign meningioma tumors are more common in women between the ages of 40 and 60, malignant forms are more frequently seen in men within the same age range.

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On this page 

• What Is a Spinal Meningioma Tumor?
• What Are the Symptoms of a Spinal Meningioma Tumor?
• How Do You Diagnose a Spinal Meningioma Tumor?
• How Do You Treat a Spinal Meningioma Tumor?

What Is a Spinal Meningioma Tumor? 

A meningioma is a tumor that forms in the meninges — the protective lining that surrounds the brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are benign, but in rare cases, they can be malignant and grow more aggressively into surrounding tissues.

Initially, a spinal meningioma may not cause noticeable symptoms. However, as it grows, it can compress parts of the spine, leading to pain, loss of sensation, motor function impairment, and in some cases, partial paralysis.

What are the types of spinal meningioma tumors? 

Meningiomas are classified into three grades based on their tissue characteristics and growth potential. Grades include:

• Grade 1 meningiomas — The most common type, these tumors are slow-growing, low-grade, and typically benign.
• Grade 2 atypical meningiomas — These mid-grade tumors have a higher likelihood of regrowth after removal.
• Grade 3 anaplastic meningiomas — These tumors are aggressive, fast-growing, and malignant.

What causes spinal meningioma tumors?

The exact cause of spinal meningioma tumors is unknown. However, like other tumors, they result from genetic mutations that disrupt normal cell growth and function, leading to uncontrolled tumor formation.

What are spinal meningioma tumor risk factors and complications?

Spinal meningioma tumor risk factors

Although the precise cause remains unclear, certain factors may increase the risk of developing spinal meningiomas, including:

• Exposure to radiation, particularly in childhood.
• Genetic predisposition to tumor development.

Complications of spinal meningioma tumors

Meningiomas that originate in the dura mater, the outermost layer of the meninges, can potentially spread to other parts of the central nervous system (CNS). Grade 2 tumors may invade nearby CNS tissues, including bone, while Grade 3 tumors pose a higher risk of metastasis to the brain or other organs.

How can I prevent spinal meningioma tumors?

There is currently no known way to prevent spinal meningioma tumors, and they are not contagious.

How common are spinal meningioma tumors?

Meningiomas account for approximately 25 percent of all spinal canal tumors. An estimated 3,360 people in the U.S. are living with high-grade meningiomas.

Grade 1 meningiomas are four times more common in women than in men, typically developing between the ages of 40 and 70. However, Grades 2 and 3 meningiomas are more frequently diagnosed in men.

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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Spinal Meningioma Tumors?

The symptoms of spinal meningiomas arise from tumor growth and its impact on surrounding tissues. Symptoms vary based on tumor location and severity, often worsening as the tumor enlarges.

Common symptoms include:

• Chronic headaches, which may be worse in the morning.
• Confusion and cognitive issues.
• Episodes of partial paralysis.
• Loss of hearing or smell.
• Pain in the back, neck, or affected region.
• Seizures.
• Weakness or loss of sensation in the arms and legs.

When should I see a doctor about my spinal meningioma tumor symptoms?

If you experience symptoms of a spinal meningioma tumor, or if you have a family history of cancer, seek medical attention right away. Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

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How Do You Diagnose Spinal Meningioma Tumors?

To diagnose a spinal meningioma tumor, your doctor will perform a comprehensive physical examination and review your medical history.

What to expect during your visit

Your doctor may order imaging studies, including:

• Angiogram — Helps doctors visualize blood flow around the tumor.
• CT or MRI scan — Provides detailed imaging of the tumor's size, location, and effects on surrounding structures.
• X-ray — Typically the first step in finding abnormalities.

Spinal meningioma tumor prognosis

Your prognosis depends on:

• Genetic factors.
• Tumor size, location, and grade.
• Whether the tumor has spread.
• Whether the tumor was completely removed during surgery.
• Your age and overall health.

The five-year relative survival rate for a Grade 1 meningioma is 63.5 percent.

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How Do You Treat Spinal Meningioma Tumors?

If your spinal meningioma is small and does not cause symptoms, your doctor may recommend active surveillance rather than immediate treatment.

However, larger or symptomatic tumors typically require surgery and/or radiation therapy.

Surgical treatment for meningioma tumors

Surgical removal is the primary treatment for symptomatic or malignant meningiomas. The type of surgery depends on the tumor's location and size.

At UPMC, we offer advanced procedures such as minimally invasive surgery and stereotactic spine radiosurgery. These techniques offer benefits including:

• Faster recovery time.
• Fewer complications.
• Reduced scarring.

Stereotactic spine radiosurgery

Stereotactic spine radiosurgery uses highly focused radiation beams to destroy tumor cells. This technique offers:

• High precision — Targets only the tumor, sparing surrounding healthy tissue.
• Noninvasive treatment — No incisions required.
• Shorter recovery time — Most people resume normal activities sooner when compared to traditional surgery.

Nonsurgical therapies

If the tumor is not completely removed during surgery, additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be necessary.

How effective is treatment for spinal meningioma tumors?

Surgery for Grade 1 meningiomas is usually highly successful, with a low risk of recurrence. However, Grades 2 and 3 meningiomas may require a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy for effective treatment and long-term management.

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Why Choose UPMC for Spinal Meningioma Care?

UPMC is nationally recognized for excellence in spine care. We offer comprehensive care from diagnosis through treatment and beyond. Our team offers the most advanced nonsurgical and surgical care for a full range of spinal disorders and is engaged in pioneering research to develop novel treatment options.

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By UPMC Editorial Staff. Last reviewed on 2025-05-16.