Types of Brain Cancer
Brain tumors are abnormal growths of cells in the brain.
- Not all brain tumors are cancer. Cancer is a term reserved for malignant tumors.
- Malignant tumors grow and spread widely and destroy nearby tissues and invade blood vessels, spread to distant parts of the body.
- Tumors that are localised to its place of origin are benign.
- Benign tumor is less serious than a malignant tumor, but can cause many problems by pressing on nearby vital struvtures.
Brain tumors affect about 6 of every 1,000 people.
Primary Brain Cancers
The brain is made up of many different types of cells.
Tumors that originate in the brain are called primary brain tumors.
Common primary brain tumors are gliomas, meningiomas, pituitary adenomas, vestibular schwannomas, and primitive neuroectodermal tumors (medulloblastomas).
These are usually named after the part of the brain or the type of brain cell from which they arise.
Metastatic Brain Cancer
Tumor cells that spread to the brain from another tumor is called metastatic. This is the commonest type of brain tumor.
Causes of Brain Cancer
The exact cause of most brain cancer is not known. Genetic factors, environmental conditions, radiation, HIV , and smoking have all been associated brain tumors.
Brain Cancer Symptoms
The symptoms of primary and metastatic brain tumors are similar.
Most common symptoms are:
- Unexplained Headache
- Weakness in limbs
- Gait abnormality
Other nonspecific symptoms and signs include the following:
- Altered mental status — changes in concentration, memory, attention, or alertness
- Nausea, vomiting
- Vision abnormalities
- Speech abnormalities
- Changes in intellegence
These symptoms may appear suddenly or more commonly gradually.
Diagnosing Brain Tumor
- CT Scans
- Blood tests
Brain Cancer Treatment
Treatment of brain cancer is usually complex. Treatment involves several multidiciplinary approach.
- Includes neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiation oncologists and neurologists.
- The treatment vary depending upon the location of the tumor, its size,type, age, and associated medical problems.
- The most common treatments are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
- In most cases, more than one method is used.