A tumour which grows in the brain.
A brain tumour refers to an abnormal growth that develops within or on the brain. While not all brain tumours are cancerous, their presence is always a matter of concern due to the increased pressure they exert within the brain and the compression of adjacent brain regions. As the tumour grows and expands, it can lead to the accumulation of pressure, causing various symptoms and impairments. Additionally, the expansion of a brain tumour within the rigid skull can result in damage to the surrounding normal brain tissue. This combination of increased pressure and tissue damage emphasizes the significance and seriousness of brain tumours. Accurate diagnosis, timely intervention, and appropriate management play vital roles in addressing these conditions and minimizing their impact on neurological function and overall well-being.
Brain tumors can originate as primary formations that emerge directly from the tissues inside the cranium, or they can be secondary growths known as metastases. Metastatic tumors spread through the bloodstream from cancerous masses located in other parts of the body, often originating in the lungs or breasts.
Primary brain tumors have an elusive origin that remains unknown to medical experts. Gliomas, constituting approximately 60 percent of these tumors, are often malignant and emerge from the intricate brain tissue. Alongside gliomas, there are other types of primary tumors that necessitate exploration. Meningiomas, for instance, originate from the meningeal membranes that envelop the brain. Acoustic neuromas, on the other hand, have their genesis in the acoustic nerve. Lastly, pituitary tumors stem from the tissue of the pituitary gland. While the majority of these tumors are noncancerous in nature, their significant size has the potential to inflict localized damage to the surrounding tissues.
Certain categories of primary brain tumors predominantly impact the pediatric population. Among them, medulloblastoma and cerebellar astrocytoma, both forms of glioma, are noteworthy. It is important to note that primary brain tumors almost never exhibit metastasis, meaning they do not spread beyond the confines of the central nervous system.
Secondary growths, also known as metastases, consistently indicate a malignant nature and have the potential to manifest in multiple organs throughout the body.
The compression of brain tissue or nerve pathways adjacent to the tumor can lead to various debilitating effects. These include muscle weakness, visual impairment, sensory disturbances, difficulties in speech, and the occurrence of epileptic seizures.
When a tumor grows, it can elevate the pressure inside the skull, leading to various distressing symptoms. These symptoms may include headaches, visual impairments, episodes of vomiting, and impaired cognitive abilities. Furthermore, if the tumor obstructs the normal circulation of cerebrospinal fluid, it can result in a condition called hydrocephalus, characterized by an accumulation of excessive fluid in the brain.
A wide range of brain imaging techniques can be employed to identify the precise location of a brain tumor and determine its size and the degree of its spread. These imaging methods play a crucial role in diagnosing and assessing the tumor.
In certain instances, the aid of MRI scanning during surgical procedures enables the potential for complete removal of a brain tumor, leading to the possibility of a cure for the patient. However, numerous cancerous growths may be situated in inaccessible locations or may have spread extensively, making complete removal impractical. In such cases, the primary objective is to alleviate the pressure by surgically removing as much of the tumor as feasible.
Both primary and secondary tumors can be addressed through the administration of radiotherapy or anticancer medications. Additionally, corticosteroid drugs are frequently prescribed on a temporary basis to diminish the size of the tumor and alleviate any accompanying swelling of the brain tissues. These treatment modalities play a vital role in combating the tumors and managing their effects on the brain.