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By Mayo Clinic staffA meningioma is a tumor that arises from the meninges — the membranes that surround your brain and spinal cord. The majority of meningioma cases are noncancerous (benign), though rarely a meningioma can be cancerous (malignant).
Meningiomas occur most commonly in women. Most people who develop a meningioma are adults. But a meningioma can occur at any age, including childhood.
A meningioma doesn't always require immediate treatment. A small meningioma that causes no significant signs and symptoms may be monitored over time for signs of growth. A meningioma that never grows may never require treatment.
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