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Causes of meningiomas: How radiation and genetic factors intersect to affect our health?
Meningiomas are usually slow-growing tumors that originate in the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Many patients may not experience any symptoms in the early stages. However, if the tumor compresses surrounding tissue, symptoms such as seizures, dementia, speech difficulties, or unilateral limb weakness may occur. Risk factors include a history of radiation therapy, family medical history, and neurofibromatosis type 2. Meningioma diagnosis usually relies on medical imaging, and asymptomatic tumors may only require regular monitoring.
"The formation of meningiomas is related to the interweaving of multiple factors, especially the influence of genetic and environmental factors."
Types and causes of meningiomas
Meningiomas are clinically divided into three types: benign, atypical and malignant. The vast majority (about 92%) are benign, and only 8% are atypical or malignant. The exact cause of these tumors is unknown; most cases are sporadic and a few are familial. People who receive radiation therapy, especially to the scalp, are at higher risk for meningiomas.
"People who have been exposed to nuclear radiation, such as the atomic bomb survivors in Hiroshima, have a higher incidence of meningiomas than the general population."
Symptoms and diagnosis of meningiomas
Symptoms of meningiomas vary, depending on the size and location of the tumor. Small tumors are often discovered incidentally during autopsy without causing symptoms. Larger tumors may cause headaches, blurred vision, double vision, and other neurological symptoms. Diagnosis is usually made using contrast CT or MRI, which are imaging tests that accurately show the presence of tumors.
The influence of genetic factors
The genetic background of meningiomas has also received scientific attention. Among them, patients with neurofibromatosis have a 50% chance of developing meningiomas. The most common genetic mutation in meningiomas occurs in the neurofibromatosis type 2 gene.
"About 80% of meningiomas are considered benign, while approximately 8% are classified as malignant or atypical."
Prevention and treatment
While meningiomas cannot be completely avoided, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding unnecessary dental X-rays can reduce the risk. Surgery is the main treatment for meningiomas with obvious symptoms, and early surgery can often lead to a good prognosis.
Conclusion
The development of meningiomas is the result of the interplay of genetic factors and environmental factors. More in-depth research in the future will help to unravel the mystery of its causes. This also prompts us to reflect on how we can better prevent and combat this disease as technology advances.
