Imaging of Meningiomas

Understanding of the structural and functional architecture of meningiomas has evolved in concert with ever-changing imaging techniques. Currently available modalities for characterization of meningiomas include (1) plain roentgenograms, (2) computed tomography (CT), (3) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), (4) magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), (5) cerebral angiography, and (6) radionuclide assays. Individually, these studies provide a wealth of structural and anatomic data, clues regarding likely tumor sub-type and differentiation from other possible pathologies. They also provide a means for preoperative intervention to facilitate surgical resection (and intraoperative navigational capability) and an index for the prediction of intraoperative cleavage characteristics. Together, these techniques allow an integrated, multimodality approach to care of the patient with a meningioma.