Brain Tumour - Signs, Diagnosis, Treatment & Prognosis

Brain tumors refer to abnormal growths of cells in the brain. They can either be categorized as malignant or benign.

 

 

Brain tumors can occur in people of all ages, but some types are more common in specific age groups. Overall, brain tumors are relatively rare compared to other types of cancers.

 

The exact causes of brain tumors are often unknown, but certain risk factors have been identified, such as exposure to ionizing radiation, a family history of brain tumors, certain genetic syndromes, and certain rare inherited conditions.

 

The signs and symptoms of a brain tumor can vary depending on its size, location, and rate of growth. Common symptoms include persistent headaches, seizures, changes in vision, difficulty with balance or coordination, cognitive or memory problems, mood or personality changes, and focal neurological deficits (such as weakness or numbness in specific body parts).

 

Diagnosing a brain tumor involves a series of tests and procedures. It usually begins with a neurological examination to assess brain function. Imaging tests like MRI or CT scans are typically performed to visualize the brain and detect any abnormalities. A biopsy may be conducted to obtain a tissue sample for examination under a microscope.

 

Brain tumors are not commonly staged like other cancers. Instead, they are often graded based on their appearance under a microscope and their growth characteristics.

 

Treatment options for brain tumors depend on several factors, including the tumor type, size, location, grade, and the patient's overall health. Surgery is often the primary treatment to remove as much of the tumor as possible.

Radiation therapy may be used to target remaining tumor cells after surgery, or in cases where complete surgical removal is not possible. Chemotherapy and targeted therapy drugs may be used in certain situations, especially for malignant brain tumors.

 

The prognosis for brain tumors varies widely depending on several factors. Benign tumors generally have a better prognosis compared to malignant tumors. Factors such as tumor grade, location, and extent of surgical removal also impact prognosis. The overall prognosis can range from excellent for certain benign tumors to more guarded for aggressive or advanced malignant tumors.