I’d never imagined a tiny growth in my skull could feel like a looming storm—yet there it was, silently brewing on the back of my head.
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1. Meet the "brain’s quiet rebel" – Meningioma
First off: meningiomas are tumors that grow from the meninges (the protective layers around the brain). They’re usually slow‑growing and many people never even know they have one because it doesn’t cause symptoms right away.
What made this case interesting?
Location: It sat on the posterior aspect of my skull—right where the spinal cord meets the brainstem.
Size: A 3 cm sphere is large enough to start tugging on surrounding nerves and blood vessels, but still "small" in the grand scheme of things.
The Symptom: "The Nerve‑Tied Hand"
Three months after a routine check‑up, I started feeling tingling in my left hand that spread down the arm—like someone was squeezing the nerve from inside. It wasn’t just a random paresthesia; it felt like a band tightening around the radial nerve.
What’s Going On?
Compression of the Radial Nerve: The radial nerve runs along the humerus and can be compressed by any mass or swelling in that area.
Vascular Compression from a Tumor: If there is an expanding tumor, it can press against the surrounding blood vessels, which in turn squeeze the nerves.
How to Diagnose?
Neurological Examination: Check for muscle weakness, sensory deficits, and reflex changes along the radial nerve distribution.
Imaging:
- MRI of the upper arm provides a detailed view of soft tissue structures, helping identify any masses or swelling compressing nerves or vessels. - CT Scan can also be used to evaluate bone involvement if present.
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What is a Tumor in the Upper Arm?
A tumor is an abnormal growth of cells. In the context of upper arm swelling, it may refer to:
A benign tumor (e.g., lipoma)
An aggressive malignant tumor (e.g., sarcoma)
The exact nature depends on histology and clinical presentation.
How can I find the cause?
Clinical Examination: Look for signs such as redness, warmth, tenderness, or changes in skin texture.
Imaging Studies:
- MRI of the arm - CT scan for bone involvement
Biopsy:
- Fine needle aspiration (FNA) - Core biopsy
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How do I treat the swelling and the underlying cause?
If it's a benign tumor: Surgical excision.
If malignant:
- Chemotherapy - Radiotherapy - Surgery if feasible.
The treatment plan will be tailored by your oncology team based on staging, pathology, and overall health status.
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Follow-up care
Regular imaging to monitor for recurrence.
Physical therapy to regain strength.
Psychological support.
Please keep an eye on any new symptoms—pain, swelling, redness—and notify the oncology clinic promptly. If you notice anything concerning or if you have questions about your current treatment plan, feel free to reach out via the patient portal or call our office at Phone Number.
Thank you for staying engaged in your care. I look forward to supporting you throughout this journey.
Warm regards,
Dr. First Last
Oncology Practice
P.S. The oncologist will be reviewing your case next week, and they’ll discuss any adjustments to your regimen. If there’s anything specific you’d like us to address in that meeting, let me know.
