Treatment of meningiomas.

Sir:
I am inquiring on behalf of a friend who has been notified that he has a fairly large tumor on the covering in the middle of the brain directly adjacent to the brain stem. It is believed to be non-malignant, and diagnosed as meningiomas.
He was told that surgery, radiation, or chemo is not now an option. He was previously advised that a shunt might have to be installed to drain accumulation of water. My questions are:
(1) Are there any treatments or drugs available to reduce or eliminate a tumor on the brain?
(2) Are there any experimental treatments or drugs that show promise and are in testing and available?
(3) Is ultrasound or laser surgery effective for these tumors?
(4) Is there a special diet that would help reduce this tumor?
(5) Does the Cleveland clinic do surgery on tumors in the area of the brain stem?
(6) Could he get an appointment at the Cleveland clinic for another opinion?

[CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS]

Meningiomas are typically removed surgically. However a technique called gamma knife (focused radiation) can occasionally be used in tumors that are difficult to reach. There are no specific diets or specific trials being done, however this is not my area of expertise. What I would recommend is for your friend to call for a second opinion. He can call the neurosurgery department at 1-800-CCF-CARE. They should be able to direct him to a neurosurgeon who can help. Good luck.