Favourable outcomes with an initial active surveillance strategy for asymptomatic radiation-induced meningiomas in long-term survivors of paediatric and young adult malignancies

Abstract

PurposeRadiation-induced meningiomas (RIM) are the most common secondary neoplasm post cranial radiotherapy, yet optimal surveillance and treatment strategies remain contentious. Herein, we report the clinical outcomes and radiological growth rate of RIM, diagnosed in a cohort of survivors undergoing MRI screening, with the objective of informing clinical guidelines and practice. Materials and methodsLong-term survivors of paediatric or young-adult malignancies, diagnosed with RIM between 1990 and 2015, were identified. Absolute (AGR) and relative (RGR) volumetric growth rates were calculated. Rapid growth was defined as AGR > 2 cm3/year or AGR > 1 cm3/year and RGR ≥ 30% ResultsFifty-two patients (87 RIM) were included. Median age at first RIM diagnosis was 33.9 (range,13.8–54.1) years. Seventy-seven (88%) RIM were asymptomatic at detection. Median follow-up time from first RIM detection was 11 (range, 0.6–28) years. Median absolute and relative volumetric growth rates were 0.05 (IQR 0.01–0.11) cm3 and 26 (IQR 7–79) % per year, respectively. Two (3.3%) RIM demonstrated rapid growth. Active surveillance was adopted for 67 (77%) RIM in 40 patients. Neurological sequelae due to RIM progression were reported in 5% of patients on active surveillance. Surgery was performed for 33 RIM (30 patients): 18 (54.5%) at diagnosis and 15 (45.5%) after active surveillance. Histopathology was WHO Grade 1 (85.2%), 2 (11.1%), 3 (3.7%). Following resection, 10-year local recurrence rate was 12%. During follow-up, 19 (37%) survivors developed multiple RIM. ConclusionsAsymptomatic RIM are typically low-grade tumours which exhibit slow growth. Active surveillance appears to be a safe initial strategy for asymptomatic RIM, associated with a low rate of neurological morbidity.