Brain Tumors

A growth or mass of abnormal cells in the brain is referred to as a brain tumour. Brain tumours can be either benign or malignant. Depending on which tissues are damaged, there are more than 120 different forms of brain tumours.

It could have originated in the brain (referred to as Primary) or it could have spread to the brain from another region of the body (referred to as Secondary).

Symptoms

  • Headaches
  • Changes in personality (such as becoming depressed, worried, or unrestrained)
  • Weakness
  • Odd sensations
  • Loss of balance
  • Difficulty concentrating
  • Seizures
  • Incoordination

Risk factors

  • Exposure to radiation
  • Family history
  • Weakened immune system

Diagnosis

Imaging studies are able to detect brain tumours, but a biopsy of the mass is typically required for a definitive diagnosis.

Treatment

Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or any combination of the three may be necessary for treatment.

Gliomas
Meningioma
Ependymoma
Craniopharyngiomas