Brain Tumors
Overview of Brain Tumors
The origins of these tumors remain largely perplexing, but we do know that many stem from genetic mutations. Some are even triggered by rare inherited conditions. Additionally, prior exposure to brain radiation can also contribute to their emergence. Interestingly, certain brain tumors take shape when cancer cells journey from other body parts and settle in the brain – a process known as metastasis.
There are two distinct categories of brain tumors. The first group is deemed ""benign,"" indicating their gradual growth and non-cancerous nature. However, don't be misled by the term ""benign,"" as these growths can wield significant impact within the brain when they expand to a critical size. This expansion may lead to compression of vital neighboring brain structures. Managing these particular tumors hinges on their location and the extent of compression they cause. Treatment strategies often involve surgical intervention, occasionally coupled with radiation therapy. Collaboration with radiation oncologists is crucial in this decision-making process.
On the other side of the spectrum, we have the ""malignant"" brain tumors. These may stem from cancer cells that journey from other body sites, like the breasts or lungs. Alternatively, they could emerge from brain cells themselves, undergoing a malignant transformation. Addressing these complex tumors demands a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together neuro-oncologists and radiation oncologists. This collective expertise aids in determining the most effective treatment path, which might encompass a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
What Causes Brain Tumors?
Symptoms of a brain tumor may vary depending on where the tumor is located. Some symptom may include:
- Balance problems
- Difficulty thinking clearly
- Headaches
- Loss of hearing, sight or speech
- Memory loss
- Mood changes
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
If there are symptoms of a brain tumor, a doctor will perform a physical exam and go through the symptoms and health history. He or she may check balance, coordination, reflexes, and hearing and sight. If the doctor suspects a brain tumor, he or she will refer a neurologist who specializes in brain tumors.
Brain tumor specialists diagnose a brain tumor with imaging tests such as a CT or MRI scan. They may take a tissue biopsy, or sample, in order to examine the cells in detail.
Brain Tumor Treatment at Abrazo Brain & Spine
Treatment for a brain tumor depends on the tumor’s location, the kind of tumor (rapidly spreading or benign) and the overall state of health. Often, the doctor will recommend a combination of treatments.
For some slowly moving or stable tumors, doctors may recommend watchful waiting.
Surgery for brain tumors is often possible. A neurosurgeon makes an opening in the skull, then uses imaging guidance to remove the tumor while sparing as much healthy brain tissue as possible. When it’s not possible to remove all of a tumor, surgeons may also operate to remove part of it before chemotherapy or to relieve pressure buildup inside the skull. This may help ease some of the symptoms of the brain tumor.
Chemotherapy may be used to shrink brain tumors or slow their growth.
Radiotherapy may also be used to shrink a tumor or eliminate tumor cells that may still exist after surgery. Today, multiple forms of targeted radiotherapy can destroy tumor cells and spare healthy brain cells.
Other treatments for brain tumors include targeted drug therapies based on the particular genetic makeup of the tumor. Doctors may also prescribe medicines to alleviate the symptoms of the brain tumor or replace hormone functions lost during treatment.