Interaction of magnesium and calcium in meningioma

Ca and Mg contents were determined in 57 meningiomas. Techniques included atomic absorption spectrometry, topochemical detection and electron probe analysis. Elastic fibres demonstrated positive reaction with reagents for detection of Mg. One third of the tumours showed Mg levels higher than Ca levels. The findings gave rise to discussion on the importance of competition and antagonism between Ca and Mg for the formation of calcified structures. As the collagen producing propensity of meningiomas is mediated by interaction with Mg, we speculate that, in addition to the amount of Mg required for basic cell functions, increased Mg levels are needed, especially in the fibromatous variant.