Ultrastructure of meningiomas and the derivation and nature of their cellular components

Abstract

T meningeal tumors commonly referred to as "meningiomas" have been well characterized by a number of studies. Yet their genesis, particularly in regard to the nature and derivation of their cellular components, has been the subject of much controversy. This is amply reflected by the various histogenic implications of such designations of these tumors as "dural endothelioma" and "arachnoid fibroblastoma." There is substantial evidence that at least 1 cell type encountered in meningioma, that designated as "meningothelial," is derived from arachnoid cells not infrequently encountered either isolated in the dural or about the pacchionian granulations.6