What is a brain tumor?

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Overview

A brain tumor is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain. The anatomy of the brain is very complex, with different parts responsible for different nervous system functions. Brain tumors can develop in any part of the brain or skull, including its protective lining, the underside of the brain (skull base), the brainstem, the sinuses and the nasal cavity, and many other areas.

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth or mass of cells in or around your brain. Brain tumors are tumors of the central nervous system (CNS). Brain tumors can occur in brain tissue or in places near brain tissue, such as the pituitary gland, the pineal gland and the membranes lining the surface of the brain. Primary brain tumors are tumors that start in the brain. Secondary brain tumors, also called metastatic brain tumors, are tumors that originate elsewhere in the body and then metastasize (spread) to the brain. Brain tumors can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (noncancerous). Some tumors grow quickly, while others are slow growing. Only about one-third of brain tumors are cancerous. But whether they’re cancerous or not, brain tumors can impact brain function and your health if they grow large enough to press on surrounding nerves, blood vessels and tissue.

What causes brain tumors?

Brain tumors are known to develop when certain genes on the chromosomes of a cell are damaged and no longer function properly, but it is still not sure why this happens. DNA in the chromosomes tells cells throughout the body what to do — it tells them when to grow, when to divide or multiply and/or when to die. When DNA is damaged and changes, it gives cells new instructions that are different from the body’s normal functioning. When that happens, the ever-growing crowd of abnormal cells takes over space in the form of tumors. Causes of brain tumors can include the following:

● Genetic predisposition: People with a family history of brain tumors may have a genetic predisposition. Certain gene mutations can increase an individual’s risk of developing this type of tumors.

● Exposure to radiation: Exposure to high doses of radiation, especially during childhood, can increase the risk of brain tumors. This effect of radiation exposure is oftentimes associated with medical treatments or various industrial activities.

● Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental toxins, especially harmful substances such as chemicals and pesticides, can affect the risk of developing brain tumors.

● Immune system dysregulation: Dysregulation of the immune system can weaken the body’s ability to control abnormal cell growth, which can set the stage for tumor formation.

● Hormonal disorders: Some hormonal imbalances in the pituitary gland may play a role in brain tumor formation.

What are the types of brain tumors?

The type of brain tumor depends on the type of cells that make up the tumor. Laboratory tests are performed on tumor cells to confirm the cell type. Brain tumors are classified as benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Benign Brain Tumors

Benign brain tumors usually grow more slowly and have limited spread to surrounding tissues. This type of tumors can usually be successfully removed with surgery and don’t usually grow back. Benign tumors often cause symptoms by pressing on surrounding healthy tissues, but they are not likely to invade surrounding healthy brain structures. Some types of benign brain tumors include:

● Meningiomas: These tumors form in the meninges, the lining of the brain. They typically develop slowly and are usually benign.

● Adenomas: These tumors are benign and form in the pituitary gland. They are usually slow growing but may release excess hormones.

● Neurofibromas: These tumors form in nerve cells. They are usually benign and can press on nerves.

Malignant Brain Tumors:

Malignant brain tumors grow more aggressively and often spread to surrounding tissues. These tumors can invade surrounding tissues and are often more difficult to operate on because they tend to spread. Malignant tumors can potentially metastasize, meaning they can spread to other parts of the nervous system. Some types of malignant brain tumors include:

● Glioblastoma Multiforme: These tumors are one of the most aggressive and most frequent malignant brain tumors. They tend to grow rapidly and spread to surrounding tissues.

● Anaplastic Astrocytoma: These tumors are fast-growing malignant tumors that show abnormal cells under a microscope. They arise from astroglial cells and tend to grow rapidly and spread to surrounding tissues.

● Medulloblastoma: These malignant tumors are fast growing and form at the base of the skull. They are the most common cancerous brain tumor in children.

What are the signs and symptoms of brain tumors?

Signs and symptoms of a brain tumor vary depending on the tumor’s location, size and type. The first symptoms of a brain tumor may be mild but can become severe over time. For this reason, it is very important to see a doctor as soon as symptoms appear for early diagnosis. Brain tumor symptoms may include:

● Headaches that may be more severe in the morning and increased intracranial pressure

● More frequent and more severe headaches

● Nausea or vomiting

● Vison issues such as blurred vision, double vision or loss of side vision

● Loss of sensation or movement in the limbs

● Balance problems

● Difficulty speaking

● Fatigue

● Confusion and disorientation

● Memory issues

● Difficulty following simple commands

● Personality or behavior changes

● Seizures

● Hearing issues

● Dizziness or or feeling like the world is spinning around

How are brain tumors treated?

The treatment method to be used depends on whether the tumor is cancerous. Treatment options may include:

● Surgery: Surgery is often used to remove brain tumors. The type of surgical intervention depends on the size and location of the tumor and its effect on surrounding tissues. In risky conditions, limited tumor removal may be performed to reduce symptoms.

● Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells in malignant tumors. It is usually applied to destroy tumor cells after surgery or to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence.

● Chemotherapy: This therapy consists of anticancer drugs that can be received through an injection into a vein or take it as a pill to kill malignant cancer cells.

● Targeted therapy: Newly developed drugs and immunotherapy aim to target tumors with specific genetic and molecular characteristics. These therapies can improve treatment success by directly targeting tumor cells.

● Rehabilitation: After treatment, rehabilitation services are also important to improve patients’ quality of life. Physical therapy, speech therapy and psychosocial support play a critical role in the patient’s return to normal life.

FAQs

Brain tumors can be caused by many different factors. Without careful monitoring and treatment, symptoms can worsen and serious complications can occur.

What are the stages of brain tumor?

Brain tumor stages are determined based on pathology results, the degree of spread and the tumor’s effect on surrounding tissues. These stages play an important role in the development of the treatment plan.

Can brain tumors recur?

Brain tumors can recur. The likelihood of recurrence after treatment varies depending on the type and stage of the tumor and the treatment methods used. Therefore, it is important for patients to have regular check-ups and follow-up examinations.

Brain tumors are a serious condition and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial. It is important for patients to make an appointment with a neurosurgery outpatient clinic and start treatment asap if they experience symptoms.

References:

https://www.cancerresearchuk.org/about-cancer/brain-tumours

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/brain-tumor

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/brain-tumours/

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/6149-brain-cancer-brain-tumor