Few diagnoses feel as frightening or as uncertain as a brain tumor. However, not all growths in or around the brain are created equal. The differences between various types of tumors can significantly impact your prognosis, treatment options, and even your legal rights if your condition was caused by a pharmaceutical product. Here is what you need to know about the difference between a meningioma and a brain tumor. If you’ve experienced injury due to Depo-Provera use, we can help.
Understanding Brain Tumors and Their Classifications
Medical experts have documented more than 150 different types of brain tumors, but they generally fall into two main categories: primary brain tumors and secondary brain tumors.
Primary brain tumors originate in the brain and can be either benign or malignant:
- Benign tumors are non-cancerous. They usually have well-defined borders, grow slowly, and do not spread to the surrounding brain tissue. While they can still cause serious problems depending on their location, benign tumors are generally easier to remove surgically.
- Malignant tumors, commonly called brain cancer, behave aggressively. They may spread to other areas of the brain or to distant organs. These tumors are difficult to remove surgically because they lack defined borders.
Secondary brain tumors, also known as metastatic brain tumors, start elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain. These are always malignant. Cancers that commonly metastasize to the brain include lung, breast, and colon cancers.
How Meningiomas Differ from Other Brain Tumors
Meningiomas are the most common type of tumor that forms in the head. These masses form in the meninges, the protective membranes that surround your brain and spinal cord. They typically grow more slowly, are more likely to be benign, and often do not require immediate treatment.
While a meningioma doesn’t originate in the brain tissue itself, it can still press against the brain, nearby nerves, and blood vessels. This can cause serious complications, such as:
- Vision changes
- Headaches that worsen in the morning
- Hearing loss
- Ringing in the ears
- Memory problems
- Seizures
- Weakness in the arms or legs
- Difficulty speaking
- Loss of smell
The Connection Between Depo-Provera and Meningioma Risk
Recent research has revealed a link between the injectable contraceptive Depo-Provera and meningioma development. A study published in March 2024 found that women who used Depo-Provera for one year or more faced a 5.55-fold increased risk of developing meningiomas. A follow-up study published in September 2024 found that women who used injectable medroxyprogesterone acetate had 53% greater odds of developing meningiomas compared to non-users.
If you’ve received this diagnosis and have a history of Depo-Provera injections, you may be entitled to compensation. Across the United States, hundreds of former patients have filed lawsuits against the medication’s manufacturer, alleging that they failed to disclose this serious risk. By filing a lawsuit, you can secure compensation for the damages associated with your meningioma, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC has helped numerous clients navigate complex pharmaceutical liability claims. Our attorneys will not rest until we have secured the justice you deserve. Contact us at (800) 220-0984 to learn more about your legal options.