Classification of Meningiomas Based on Their Surgical Removal, World Health Organization Grade, and Cytogenetic Profile: A Treatment Algorithm

BackgroundMeningiomas are the most common primary intracranial tumor, but the lack of prospective randomized trials has led to different guidelines for their treatment. We proposed a classification of meningiomas that considers surgical removal, histology, and cytogenetic profile, based on a literature review of these 3 criteria. The classification can be used to guide adjuvant treatment and follow-up.MethodsA retrospective literature review was performed of PubMed from 2007 to 2016. Search terms were “meningioma,” “surgery,” “WHO classification,” “cytogenetic,” and “algorithm.”ResultsMeningiomas were classified into 5 groups (A-E) according to the Simpson resection grade, World Health Organization grade, and cytogenetic profile. Adjuvant therapy, follow-up magnetic resonance imaging, and management of recurrence and/or regrowth were proposed according to the classification.ConclusionsThe proposed meningioma classification was based on our experience and retrospective evidence collated from the literature and supported by recommendations. The application of the classification criteria yielded an algorithm for treatment and follow-up of patients with meningioma.