Brain Tumors
Definition
A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in which the cells have started to multiply uncontrollably. Tumors can be classified into two main types, benign and malignant.
Benign tumors that originate in the brain are non-cancerous and incapable of spreading to another part of the body. This type of tumor is usually slow growing and surgical removal is the main form of treatment. However, they can be located in deep areas involving noble structures, making surgical removal more challenging.
Malignant brain tumors are more difficult to treat. This type of tumor, also known as brain cancer, grows more rapidly, usually destroying surrounding brain tissue. Malignant brain tumors can be further classified as primary or secondary tumors.
Primary brain tumors, also known as primary brain cancer, originate in the brain and rarely spread to other parts of the body. Primary brain tumors are named from the cells in which they originate. Examples of primary tumors include: astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and gangliogliomas.
Secondary brain tumors, also known as metastatic brain cancer, originate from cancer cells in another part of the body which have spread to the brain. The most common places for the cancer to originate include the lung and breast.
Causes
The cause of primary brain tumors (primary brain cancer) is unknown.
Secondary brain tumors (metastatic brain cancer) are caused by the same triggers that caused the originating malignancy.
Risk Factors
Certain risk factors may increase your odds of developing a brain tumor.
Possible risk factors include:
- Exposure to radiation
- Immune system disorders
- Family history
- Age
- Gender
- Race
Symptoms
Although these symptoms may indicate a less serious health condition, you should see your physician if you are experiencing one or more of the following:
- Frequent headaches
- Vomiting
- Loss of appetite
- Changes in personality
- Seizures
- Memory problems
Symptoms may vary depending on the size and location of the tumor.
Diagnosis
In addition to a physical exam, your physician may request one or more of the following tests to confirm diagnosis:
Computed tomography (CT Scan): A computerized x-ray machine is used to take a series of detailed pictures from many different angles. Dye may be injected to help to clarify organs and tissues.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): Powerful magnets waves are used to make a series of detailed pictures. Patients are injected with a substance called gadolinium to highlight possible cancer cells.
Once a brain tumor has been identified, a biopsy can be done to look for cancer cells. A pathologist will then review the sample to determine if the tumor is cancerous.
Treatment
Treatments may vary depending on the type and location of the tumor. There are three standard treatments that are used: surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Your physician may recommend one or a combination of these treatments.
Surgery: Brain tumors are surgically removed whenever possible. The type of procedure depends on the size and location of the tumor. Today there are a variety of minimally invasive surgical options allowing surgeons to access areas previously impossible to reach.
- Awake craniotomy allows the neurosurgeon to remove brain tumors located near noble structures. Patient’s brain functions are monitored during the surgery.
- The expanded endonasal approach (EEA) is a state-of-the-art surgical procedure that can be used to treat diverse tumors, depending on the type and location.
- Image-guided tumor resection allows the neurosurgeon to access deeply located tumors using a computer guidance system. This allows the surgeon to accurately reach deep tumors in a minimally invasive way causing minimal brain disruption while still offering adequate tumor removal. An endoport (11 mm acrylic tube) can be used to maintain the corridor for resection of these deep lesions under endoscopic visualization.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation is commonly used to treat brain tumors, since surgery isn’t always an option. Radiation therapy may be delivered externally by directing radiation at the tumor from an outside source, internally by placing radioactive material directly in the body near the cancer, or using stereotactic radiosurgery to deliver a concentrated dose of radiation directly to the brain tumor. This procedure requires the use of special immobilizing equipment and MRI or CT scans to guide the radiation.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells. Depending on the type and stage of the cancer, chemotherapy may be taken by mouth, as an injection, or placed directly into the brain tumor site.
Clinical trials are an important component of care for patients with cancer of the nervous system, and participation in clinical trials may offer additional treatment options. Ask your physician if a clinical trial may be right for you.
Prevention
There are no guidelines for prevention. Early diagnosis may prevent serious complications.