Hormonal Effect on Meningioma Growth

Abstract

Meningiomas are the most common type of benign brain tumor, and the incidence of meningioma in women is more than twofold higher than in men. Several studies have demonstrated that hormones are somehow related to the growth of meningiomas.A 72-year-old man with benign meningioma underwent tumor resection and had no recurrence for 18 years. He was found to have prostate cancer, and he received hormonal therapy with a luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH) agonist. Two years later, he developed severe cognitive dysfunction and gait disturbance. Gadolinium-enhanced brain magnetic resonance imaging revealed a large recurrent mass and obstructive hydrocephalus. Staged resection was performed and stereotactic radiation therapy was administered against the residual tumor. His symptoms improved after endoscopic third ventriculostomy for obstructive hydrocephalus and his residual tumor remains stable.This is the first report of a case in which an LHRH agonist promoted the growth of a pre-existing meningioma. We suggest that patients with a history of meningioma who are receiving LHRH agonist treatment should be closely monitored.