Tumour
Fast facts
What type of brain injury is a tumour?
- Brain tumours can be either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous)
- Symptoms vary widely depending on the tumour’s size, type, and location
- Early detection and treatment are crucial for better outcomes
What is a brain tumour?
A brain tumour is a mass of abnormal cells in the brain. These tumours can originate in the brain (primary brain tumours) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic brain tumours). Brain tumours can affect brain function by pressing on surrounding tissues, leading to various neurological symptoms.
Symptoms
Symptoms of brain tumours can vary greatly and may include:
- Persistent headaches
- Seizures
- Nausea or vomiting
- Vision or hearing problems
- Balance or coordination issues
- Cognitive or personality changes
- Weakness or numbness in limbs
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing brain tumours:
- Age: risk increases with age, though some types are more common in children
- Family history: genetic conditions like neurofibromatosis can increase risk
- Radiation exposure: previous radiation therapy to the head
- Chemical exposure: exposure to certain chemicals and toxins
Complications
Brain tumours can lead to serious complications, including:
- Cognitive impairments: memory loss, difficulty concentrating
- Motor skills deficits: weakness, coordination problems
- Seizures: frequent and severe
- Vision and hearing loss: due to pressure on nerves
- Hydrocephalus: fluid build up in the brain
Testing and Treatment
Diagnosis of brain tumours involves several tests:
- Neurological exam: tests vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength and reflexes
- Imaging tests: MRI and CT scans to detect tumours
- Biopsy: a sample of tissue is examined to determine the type of tumour
Treatment options depend on the type, size and location of the tumour:
- Surgery: to remove as much of the tumour as possible
- Radiation therapy: uses high-energy beams to kills tumour cells
- Chemotherapy: uses drugs to kill cancer cells
- Targeted therapy: focuses on specific molecules involved in tumour growth
Early diagnosis and treatment are essential to manage brain tumours effectively and improve the quality of life for your special person.