Tumors in the brain: Varieties, signs, and identification methods
Brain tumors can be a complex and intimidating topic, but understanding the basics can help alleviate some of the uncertainty. These growths can be categorised as either benign or malignant, and their behaviour and treatment options differ significantly.
Benign brain tumors, such as meningiomas, pituitary tumors, and chordomas, typically do not spread outside their original brain site. They are usually confined to the brain tissue or meninges and do not metastasize to other parts of the body. Common locations for benign brain tumors include the brain tissue itself, the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord, and areas near the skull base or top/outer brain curve.
On the other hand, malignant brain tumors or secondary (metastatic) brain tumors, which originate from cancers elsewhere (e.g., lungs, breasts, skin, kidneys), spread to the brain and can metastasize to other parts of the brain. Brain cancers generally do not spread outside the nervous system, but cancers metastasizing to the brain often come from other organs.
This distinction is critical for prognosis and treatment planning. Benign brain tumors do not contain cancer cells, grow slowly, and tend not to spread from the original growth site. Malignant brain tumors, however, contain cancer cells and tend to grow rapidly and spread to other parts of the brain.
The diagnosis of a brain tumor may involve tests such as a CT scan, MRI scan, EEG, and a biopsy, where a healthcare professional removes a piece of the tumor for testing to determine if it is cancerous.
It's important to note that most brain tumors are not associated with any known risk factors, except for exposure to radiation, usually from radiation therapy for other cancers. People with weaker immune systems, such as those with late-stage HIV, might have an increased risk of brain tumors.
The National Cancer Institute advises that in 2009-2015, about 50% of people with cancer of the brain or nervous system survived for 5 years or longer, considering all types.
For those diagnosed with a brain tumor, support is available. The ABTA offers care and support to people with brain tumors and can be contacted toll-free at (800) 886-ABTA.
In addition to surgical removal, treatment options for brain tumors may include stereotactic radiosurgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. However, it's crucial to note that radiation therapy, while effective in destroying a brain tumor or preventing its growth, cannot distinguish between tumorous cells and healthy cells and can damage both.
Some familial cancer disorders can contribute to certain types of brain tumor, such as neurofibromatosis 1 and 2, tuberous sclerosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
Lastly, it's worth mentioning that there are over 100 types of brain and spinal cord tumors that affect different types of cells, and some types of tumor may spread to other parts of the central nervous system, such as the spinal cord. Central nervous system lymphoma, a highly aggressive type of cancer that affects the immune cells in the lymph nodes, is one such example.
In summary, understanding the difference between benign and malignant brain tumors is essential for accurate prognosis and effective treatment planning. While benign brain tumors tend to grow slowly and remain localized, malignant brain tumors can grow rapidly and spread to other parts of the brain. For those diagnosed with a brain tumor, support and resources are available to help navigate this challenging journey.
- Proton therapy, a type of radiation therapy, can be used in the treatment of malignant brain tumors, despite its potential to damage both tumorous cells and healthy cells.
- Some familial cancer disorders, such as neurofibromatosis 1 and 2, tuberous sclerosis, von Hippel-Lindau disease, and Li-Fraumeni syndrome, can contribute to certain types of brain tumors.
- Cancer conditions like brain tumors, along with other medical-conditions, can significantly impact one's health-and-wellness, emphasizing the importance of support and resources for those diagnosed.
