Metastatic meningioma of the scalp

Meningiomas arise from tissues around the brain and spinal cord. A scalp lesion may represent spread from a meningioma, direct extension, a treatment-related change or a different skin or soft-tissue condition. The appearance alone cannot establish the diagnosis. Doctors may review earlier pathology, examine the scalp and nervous system, and use imaging to compare the scalp with the original tumour site and brain.

Symptoms can include a growing lump, tenderness, skin change or pain, but a lesion may also be noticed without symptoms. The clinical outlook depends on the tumour grade, previous treatment, location, involvement of nearby structures and whether disease is present elsewhere.

Arrange review with the team managing the meningioma and bring previous scan and pathology reports if available. Ask whether a biopsy or removal is needed to confirm the tissue type. Brain tumour surgery may be considered when the lesion can be removed safely or when tissue is needed; stereotactic radiosurgery may be suitable for selected residual or recurrent disease. The team may recommend follow-up after cancer treatment with scheduled examinations and imaging.

Seek prompt medical advice for rapid enlargement, bleeding, ulceration, severe pain, redness with fever or drainage. Emergency assessment is needed for a seizure, sudden weakness, new confusion, severe headache, repeated vomiting, loss of consciousness or a sudden change in speech or vision. These symptoms can reflect pressure, infection, bleeding or another urgent problem.

Ask what confirms that the scalp lesion is metastatic meningioma, whether the original tumour grade changes the plan, and which scans are needed. Discuss the reason for surgery or focused radiation, possible effects on the scalp and brain, wound care, and the schedule for post-treatment surveillance.