Meningioma

Pediatric spinal meningiomas are rare, typically benign tumors that arise from the meninges—the protective membranes surrounding the spinal cord. Although meningiomas are more common in adults, they can occasionally occur in children, often posing diagnostic challenges. If left untreated, spinal meningiomas can lead to spinal cord compression, resulting in pain, weakness, sensory deficits, and even permanent disability. In Bangladesh, the diagnosis and management of pediatric spinal meningiomas remain under-recognized due to lack of awareness and limited access to pediatric neurosurgical expertise. Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman, a renowned pediatric neurosurgeon, offers specialized care in the early diagnosis and microsurgical removal of these tumors using the latest techniques. What is a Pediatric Spinal Meningioma? A spinal meningioma is a tumor that originates from the arachnoid layer of the meninges. While most spinal meningiomas are benign and slow-growing, their location within the spinal canal can result in progressive neurological impairment. Most are located intradural-extramedullary (within the dura but outside the spinal cord). Can occur at any spinal level, but are often found in the thoracic region. Though rare in children, pediatric cases require urgent and specialized attention due to their potential for rapid neurological decline. Causes and Risk Factors Congenital genetic mutations (e.g., neurofibromatosis type 2 - NF2) Spontaneous (idiopathic) in most pediatric cases Slight female predominance in older children May be associated with other spinal dysraphism in rare congenital cases Symptoms of Pediatric Spinal Meningioma The symptoms depend on the size, location, and degree of spinal cord compression. In the context of Bangladesh, delayed diagnosis is common due to misinterpretation of symptoms. Back pain – persistent or progressive Leg weakness or difficulty walking Numbness or tingling in the limbs Gait disturbances and frequent falls Bladder or bowel dysfunction – late symptom Scoliosis in cases of long-standing spinal compression Spasticity or stiffness in the legs Diagnosis: Role of Advanced Imaging Accurate and early diagnosis is key to preventing irreversible neurological damage. 1. Clinical Evaluation Comprehensive neurological examination Evaluation of motor strength, reflexes, sensory function, and gait Bladder and bowel assessment 2. Imaging Studies MRI of the spine with contrast – the gold standard for identifying spinal meningiomas, determining size, location, and degree of cord compression CT scan – helpful for evaluating bony changes and calcifications Spinal angiography – rarely used, in highly vascular tumors Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman ensures a precise diagnostic pathway combining clinical expertise with high-resolution imaging available in leading centers across Bangladesh. Surgical Management Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for symptomatic pediatric spinal meningiomas. The goal is complete tumor removal while preserving spinal cord function. Surgical Techniques Used by Dr. Nafaur Rahman Microsurgical tumor excision under high magnification Laminectomy or laminoplasty for access to the tumor Intraoperative neuromonitoring to safeguard spinal cord function Dural repair with watertight closure to prevent CSF leak Minimally invasive approaches in select cases to reduce recovery time Postoperative Care and Prognosis Most children recover well with neurological improvement seen within weeks Rehabilitation therapy helps regain strength, mobility, and bladder/bowel control Regular follow-up with MRI to monitor for recurrence Excellent long-term prognosis in cases of complete resection Challenges in the Bangladesh Context Delayed recognition of neurological symptoms in rural areas Limited access to MRI and specialized pediatric neurosurgeons Misdiagnosis as orthopedic or developmental delay Social stigma and financial barriers delay medical care Inadequate rehabilitation services in many districts Why Trust Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman? One of the few neurosurgeons in Bangladesh with specialized training in pediatric spinal tumor surgery Operates at both National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS) and Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre Renowned for microsurgical precision, low complication rates, and patient-centered care Leads a multidisciplinary team including pediatric neurologists, physiotherapists, and urologists for holistic care Committed to raising awareness, training medical professionals, and improving pediatric neuro-healthcare access across Bangladesh Appointment and Contact Dr. Md. Nafaur Rahman Assistant Professor, Pediatric Neurosurgery National Institute of Neurosciences & Hospital (NINS) Chief Consultant, Bangladesh Paediatric Neurocare Centre 📞 For Serial/Appointment: 01912988182 | 01607033535 🌐 Website: www.neurosurgeonnafaur.com