What are Brain Tumors?
A Brain Tumor is a mass of abnormal cells growing in or around the brain. These tumors can be either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign Tumors grow slowly and usually do not spread, while Malignant Tumors can grow rapidly and invade surrounding tissues. Brain Tumors can originate in the brain (primary) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic).
The exact cause of most brain tumors is unknown but is likely a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Scientists have identified a few gene mutations that can increase the risk of developing certain types of Brain Tumors. Exposure to ionizing radiation, such as radiation therapy, may also increase the risk of developing a brain tumor.
Common types of Brain Tumors:
- Acoustic Neuroma
This Benign Tumor grows on the main nerve leading from the inner ear to the brain, potentially causing hearing loss and balance issues.
- Astrocytoma
A type of tumor originating in star-shaped glial cells called astrocytes. They can vary in aggressiveness and are often found in the brain and spinal cord.
- Chordomas
Rare, slow-growing tumors that occur at the base of the skull and along the spine. They are typically benign but can be locally aggressive.
- Craniopharyngioma
These rare, benign tumors usually form near the pituitary gland and can affect hormone production and vision.
- Epidermoid Cysts
These benign growths form beneath the skin and can occur anywhere on the body, including the brain.
- Esthesioneuroblastoma
Rare Malignant Tumors originating in the olfactory nerve, which is involved in the sense of smell.
- Glioma and Glioblastoma
Gliomas are Brain Tumors that originate in the glial cells. Glioblastoma, the most aggressive type, grows rapidly and invades surrounding brain tissue.
- Intraventricular Tumors
These tumors are found in the ventricles of the brain and can be aggressive, though they are usually benign.
- Meningioma
Typically Benign Tumors that develop from the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
- Metastatic Brain Tumors
These tumors result from cancer cells spreading to the brain from other parts of the body, such as the lungs, breast, or colon.
- Olfactory Neuroblastoma
Rare, aggressive tumors that grow in the nasal cavity, potentially affecting the sense of smell.
- Pineal Region Tumors
Extremely rare tumors that develop near the pineal gland, located at the center of the brain, which can affect sleep patterns and hormonal balance.
- Pituitary Adenoma
Tumors in the pituitary gland that can disrupt hormone production. This can lead to conditions like Cushing’s disease (excess cortisol), acromegaly (excess growth hormone), or hypothyroidism (low thyroid hormone). Symptoms may include vision changes, unexplained weight changes, fatigue, mood swings, and irregular menstrual cycles.
- Schwannoma
Typically Benign Tumors that develop in the insulating sheath around nerves, often affecting sensation, strength when originating from the spinal cord as well as hearing, balance, sensation, vision, and swallowing when originating from the brain.
- Skull Base Tumors
Abnormal growths located at the base of the skull, an area that includes the undersurface of the brain, the bones around the eyes, nose, and ears. These tumors can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Given their location near critical nerves and blood vessels, Skull Base Tumors require treatment by experienced teams.
- Spinal Cord Tumors
These tumors can be benign or malignant and grow in or around the spinal cord, potentially causing pain, weakness, and discoordination.
Symptoms and Diagnosis
Symptoms vary based on the tumor’s size, location, and growth rate. Common signs include:
- Persistent headaches or a new pattern of headaches
- Seizures or convulsions
- Vision or hearing changes
- Memory issues
- Balance or coordination problems
- Personality or behavior changes
- Nausea or vomiting
Diagnosing a Brain Tumor involves:
- Neurological Exam: In person tests that we perform to evaluate vision, strength, sensation, hearing, balance, coordination, and reflexes.
- Imaging Tests: MRI and CT scans to visualize the brain’s structure and identify abnormal growths.
- Biopsy: A sample of the tumor is examined under a microscope to determine the type and grade.
Personalized Treatment Plans:
Treatment varies depending on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatments include:
- Surgery
Removing as much of the tumor as possible while striving not to damage healthy brain tissue.
- Radiation Therapy
Used to shrink tumors or eliminate residual tumor cells post-surgery. Techniques such as stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife) are intended to precisely target the tumor while sparing healthy tissue.
- Chemotherapy
Medications that kill cancer cells or stop their growth.
- Targeted Therapy
Drugs that target specific genetic changes in tumor cells.
- Tumor Treating Fields (TTFields)
A device that uses electrical fields to disrupt cancer cell division.
We understand the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors. Our center for neuro-oncology specializes in diagnosing and treating all types of brain tumors with cutting-edge technology and treatments. We provide comprehensive and personalized care, so you can focus on living a full life. But most importantly, we know this is a journey you may be uneasy about. Rest assured you are in good hands, you are empowered to make your healthcare decisions, and your Intent Medical Group team is ready for you.
Rehabilitation and Support:
Post-treatment rehabilitation may involve physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to help regain function and improve quality of life. Emotional and psychological support is also vital for patients and their families during and after treatment.
Your Intent Medical Group team is dedicated to providing comprehensive and compassionate care, leveraging the latest advancements in neuro-oncology to support you through your treatment journey.