Breast cancer and meningioma

A unique association between meningioma and breast cancer has recently been observed. A review of the literature reveals 33 such cases. Certain similarities exist between these two tumors. They each occur more frequently in women in the fifth and sixth decade, and pregnancy accelerates the symptoms of both entities. Furthermore, an increase in estrogen and progesterone receptor protein has been noted in each. A patient with established breast cancer who presents with central nervous system symptoms cannot be assumed to have cerebral metastases. A thorough workup to rule out meningioma is necessary. Furthermore, patients with proven meningioma must be observed closely for the subsequent development of breast cancer.