Malignant meningiomas

Abstract

Malignant meningiomas are WHO Grade III meningiomas representing 1% of all meningiomas. They are comprised of three histologic types: anaplastic, rhabdoid, and papillary. They can arise de novo or as a result of biologic progression of meningiomas of lower histologic grades. The overall survival of patients with WHO grade III meningiomas is 2-3 years. Surgery is the main treatment, while radiotherapy is thought to slow tumor growth. Multiple trials have been attempted on chemotherapeutic agents, hormonal therapies, small molecule and anti-angiogenic agents without robust evidence of efficacy. The rarity of these tumors is the main reason for our patchy understanding of the natural history and lack of effective treatment options. There is an urgent need to develop alternative therapies given the significantly increased risk of complication and co-mordibity associated with repeated surgeries in this population.

Keywords: Anaplastic; Anaplastic meningioma; Malignant; Meningioma; Papillary; Radiotherapy; Rhabdoid; Surgery.