Can a 1.1 cm calcified meningioma in the left frontal area cause symptoms of cold sensation, similar to brain freeze, on the right frontal area radiating to the temporal area?

From the Guidelines

A calcified meningioma of 1.1 cm in the left frontal area could potentially cause cold sensations or "brain freeze" feelings on the opposite (right) side, as meningiomas can irritate surrounding brain tissue or compress nerves, leading to unusual sensory symptoms. According to the clinical presentation guidelines for pediatric central nervous system cancers, version 2.2025, by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network 1, symptoms of brain tumors depend largely on tumor location and can include a wide range of neurological deficits. While the guidelines primarily focus on pediatric cases, the principle that tumor location influences symptoms applies broadly.

To get insurance approval for a brain MRI, it is essential to document specific symptoms, the known meningioma, and any progression or changes in symptoms, as most insurance companies require medical necessity documentation 1. Having detailed records of symptoms and their impact on daily functioning is crucial for approval.

For meningioma evaluation, an MRI both with and without contrast is typically needed, as contrast enhancement helps distinguish the tumor's borders, internal characteristics, and relationship to surrounding structures 1. The contrast agent allows radiologists to better assess whether the meningioma is growing or changing, which is vital for making treatment decisions and monitoring the tumor over time. Key points to consider for the MRI include:

• The use of contrast to enhance visualization of the tumor and its effects on surrounding brain tissue
• The importance of detailed symptom documentation for insurance approval
• The potential for meningiomas to cause a variety of symptoms due to their location and impact on brain tissue and nerves.

From the Research

Symptoms of Calcified Meningioma

• A calcified meningioma of 1.1 cm in the left frontal area can potentially cause symptoms due to its location and size, although the exact symptoms may vary depending on the individual case 2, 3.
• The symptoms described, such as a cold sensation like brain freeze on the right frontal area radiating to the temporal area, are not typically associated with meningiomas in the literature, and it is unclear if this is directly related to the calcified meningioma 2, 3.
• Meningiomas can cause a range of symptoms, including headaches, seizures, and neurological deficits, depending on their location and size 2, 3.

Insurance Approval for Brain MRI

• To get insurance to approve a brain MRI, it is typically necessary to provide medical documentation and justification for the procedure, including symptoms and medical history 2, 3.
• The specific requirements for insurance approval may vary depending on the insurance provider and the individual case.

MRI with and without Contrast

• MRI with and without contrast may be necessary to fully evaluate a calcified meningioma, as contrast agents can help to distinguish the tumor from surrounding tissues 4, 5.
• A study published in the AJNR found that reducing the gadolinium dose to 62% of the standard level still allows for sufficient visual delineation of meningiomas from surrounding tissues, but further reduction to 25% substantially compromises the ability to distinguish the tumor from adjacent structures 4.
• The use of contrast agents in MRI for meningioma evaluation is widely accepted, and the choice of contrast agent and dose may depend on the specific case and medical institution 4, 5.