Brain Cancer

Navigating Your Diagnosis

Brain cancer refers to the development of abnormal and uncontrolled cell growth within the brain. These tumors can originate from different types of cells in the brain, including glial cells (support cells), neurons, and meninges (protective layers around the brain). The tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Types Of Brain Cancer

Benign Tumors:

These tumors are generally slow-growing, well-defined, and unlikely to invade surrounding tissues. They are not cancerous, but their location within the brain can still cause problems depending on their size and mass effect.

Malignant Tumors

These are cancerous tumors that grow more rapidly and can invade nearby tissues. Malignant brain tumors are more concerning as they have the potential to spread to other parts of the brain or, in some cases, to other organs (metastasize).

What you need to know

From recognizing the symptoms to diving into treatment options, here is what you need to know in order to stay informed about your health:

Prevention

There are no known prevention techniques to inhibit a brain tumor from developing. However, healthcare providers do recommend if you have had a family history of brain cancer to talk to your doctor and also get regular brain screening tests.

Risk Factors

There is not a specific link to risk factors and the development of a brain tumor, but there are several facets that contribute to increasing someone’s risk of developing a brain tumor. Those risks factors include: radiation exposure, family and genetic history, weakened immune system, age, race and ethnicity, and gender.

Symptoms

While this list may not be all-inclusive of every symptoms brain tumor can cause, these symptoms are the most commonly reported: severe and recurring headaches, seizures, nausea and vomiting, numbness, prolonged fatigue, loss of vision, difficulty speaking or hearing, difficulty speaking, hearing, or remembering, changes in balance, and changes in mood and personality.

Diagnosis

There are three methods to diagnosing brain cancer, though your healthcare provider might order additional testing depending on your symptoms. The three methods of diagnosing include a neurological exam, imaging techniques such as CT or MRI, and a biopsy, if it is safe to do so.

Treatment

Surgery: This is the most common treatment for and can range from craniotomy, an awake brain tumor, neuroendoscopy, or an MRI-guided laser ablation.

Radiation Therapy: This treatment utilizes x-rays and other forms of light rays to destroy the cells in malignant cancer or slow the growth of a benign tumor.

Chemotherapy: Medication used to supplement radiation or surgery in order to slow or destroy the cancer cells.

Frequently Asked Questions

View All FAQ's
How does brain cancer start?

Answer: Brain cancer begins when abnormal cells grow and divide uncontrollably due to genetic changes.

How is brain cancer diagnosed and staged?

Answer: Diagnosis involves tests to determine size and spread. Staging helps determine how advanced the cancer is.

Why does the type of brain cancer matter?

Answer: Each type can behave differently, making accurate diagnosis essential for effective treatment planning.

What happens after treatment for brain cancer?

Answer: Follow-up care varies by patient. A survivorship plan can help manage ongoing care and side effects.