Brain Tumor Symptoms and Overview

Our Comprehensive Approach to Brain Tumor Treatment

At UPMC, our neurosurgeons have the depth and breadth of expertise required to treat most brain tumors — including those once considered inoperable, thanks to our pioneering advances in minimally invasive surgery and radiosurgery.

Our extensive expertise allows us to develop a treatment plan for you, using the technique — or combination of techniques — that offers the best opportunity for recovery.

Conditions We Treat

UPMC is among the most experienced centers in the world in treating brain tumors and lesions using traditional and minimally invasive procedures, such as the Endoscopic Endonasal Approach (EEA), Neuroendoport^® Surgery, and Gamma Knife^® Radiosurgery.

Common brain tumors we treat include:

View full list of brain tumors we treat »

What Is a Brain Tumor?

A brain tumor is any mass or growth of abnormal cells in your brain. Many different types of tumors exist — some may be benign, while others are cancerous. Symptoms and treatment options vary based on the type of brain tumor, its severity and growth rate, as well as its location in your brain.

Brain Tumor Symptoms

The signs of brain tumors vary greatly and depend largely on the type of tumor, its size, and location in the brain. General signs of a brain tumor include:

• Unexplained headaches or changes in patterns of headaches
• Unexplained vomiting
• Difficulty with balance and movement
• Speech problems
• Confusion and/or personality changes
• Seizures
• Blurred vision

Advanced Treatment Options

Our full array of treatments for brain tumors and lesions include traditional and microsurgical approaches and the latest minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as:

• Endoscopic Endonasal Approach
• Neuroendoport® Surgery
• Gamma Knife® Radiosurgery

Compared to traditional, open brain surgery, these minimally invasive procedures can offer:

• Minimal scarring
• Fewer side effects and complications
• Faster recovery