What is a brain tumor?
A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain or its surrounding membranes. Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Because the skull is a closed space made of bone, even a benign tumor can cause serious problems by pressing on sensitive brain tissue. Symptoms arise either because the overall pressure in the skull increases (intracranial pressure) or because the tumor interferes with specific functions in the part of the brain where it is located.
Causes and Risk Factors
In most cases, the cause of a brain tumor is unknown. Unlike many other forms of cancer, there are few lifestyle factors directly linked to the disease.
- Age: Risk generally increases with age, although certain tumor types are more common in children.
- Genetics: A small percentage (approx. 5–10%) is due to hereditary genetic syndromes.
- Radiation: Previous ionizing radiation to the head (e.g., during treatment for other cancers) is a known risk factor.
- Secondary Tumors: It is common for cancer in other organs (such as lungs or breasts) to spread to the brain, known as brain metastases.
Common Symptoms of a Brain Tumor
Symptoms of a brain tumor can develop gradually or occur suddenly. They are often divided into general symptoms due to pressure and local symptoms due to the tumor's location.
- Headache: Often worse in the morning, during exertion, or when lying down. It may be accompanied by nausea and vomiting.
- Seizures: A first seizure in adulthood is a classic warning sign that should always be investigated.
- Personality Changes: Irritability, apathy, or the person appearing "different" to relatives.
- Cognitive Difficulties: Problems with memory, concentration, or language (difficulty finding words).
- Visual Disturbances: Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of parts of the visual field.
- Paralysis or Sensory Loss: Weakness in an arm or leg, often only on one side of the body.
- Balance Problems: Dizziness or difficulty coordinating movements.
What does the headache feel like?
Headaches from a brain tumor often differ from common tension headaches. It is typically most intense in the morning because intracranial pressure rises when lying down during the night. The pain may ease slightly when standing up or later in the day. However, it is important to remember that headaches are extremely common and in the vast majority of cases have causes other than a tumor.
How is a diagnosis made?
If a brain tumor is suspected, a thorough neurological examination of reflexes, strength, and sensation is performed, followed by imaging.
- MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): The most important method for imaging the brain. MRI provides highly detailed images and can show the tumor's exact location and size.
- CT (Computed Tomography): Often used in acute stages to quickly see if there are hemorrhages or larger tumors.
- Biopsy: To know exactly what type of cells the tumor consists of, doctors often need to take a sample, either through a small burr hole in the skull or during surgical removal of the tumor.
Prognosis and Treatment
Treatment is highly individualized and depends on the tumor's type, aggressiveness, and location.
- Surgery: The primary goal is often to remove as much of the tumor as possible without damaging vital brain functions.
- Radiation Therapy and Chemotherapy: Often used after surgery to slow the growth of remaining tumor cells.
- Corticosteroids: Often given to reduce swelling (edema) around the tumor, which can quickly relieve symptoms like headache and paralysis.