Brain cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the tissues of the brain.
Brain tumors can be benign or malignant. Brain tumors are grouped by grade.
The grade of the tumor refers to the way the cells look under a microscope.
Cells from low grade tumors (grade 1 and 2) look more normal and generally
grow more slowly than cells from high grade tumors (grades 3 and 4). Over
time a low grade tumor may become a high grade tumor. There are many types
of primary brain tumors. Tumors are named according to the type of cells
or the part of the brain in which they begin.
Common Types of Brain Tumors
Most primary tumors begin in glial cells. This type of tumor is called
a glioma. Among adults, the most common types of tumors include:
Astrocytomas which arise from star-shaped glial cells called astrocytes. It can be
any grade and most often occurs in the cerebrum.
Meningioma is a tumor that arises in the meninges. It can be grades 1, 2, or 3. It
is usually benign and grows slowly.
Oligodendroglioma which the tumor that arises from cells that make the fatty substance that
covers and protects nerves. It usually occurs in the cerebrum. It’s
most common in middle-aged adults. It can be grade 2 or 3.
What Causes Brain Tumors?
No one knows the exact cause of brain tumors. Researchers are studying
whether people with certain risk factors are more likely than others to
develop a brain tumor. Studies have found the following as risk factors
for brain tumors: ionizing radiation and family history.
Brain Tumor Symptoms
Symptoms of a brain tumor depend on tumor size, type, and location. Symptoms
may be caused when a tumor presses on a nerve or harms a part of the brain.
They also may be caused when a tumor blocks the fluid that flows through
and around the brain, or when the brain swells because of the buildup
of fluid. The most common symptoms of brain tumors include:
Headaches
Nausea and vomiting
Changes in speech, vision, or hearing
Problems balancing or walking
Changes in mood, personality, or ability to concentrate
Problems with memory, muscle jerking, or twitching
Numbness or tingling in the arms or legs
Diagnosis and Testing
If you have symptoms that exhibit a brain tumor your doctor will give you
a physical exam and ask about your personal and family health history.
Additional tests including neurologic exam, MRI, CT scan, angiogram, spinal
tap, and biopsy may be done also. A biopsy is the removal of tissue to
look for tumor cells. Biopsies are done by a surgeon and sent to a pathologist
to evaluate the tissue under a microscope for diagnosis and grade. Once
testing is complete, treatment options are discussed with the patient.
Brain cancer treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation
therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the type and grade of brain
tumor, its location in the brain, its size, and your age and general health.
A treatment plan that is best for you will then be decided upon by you
and your physician.
Advanced Brain Cancer Care
At Big Horn Basin Regional Cancer Center, our team is dedicated to providing
advanced, personalized care for patients facing brain cancer. We work
closely with neurosurgeons, radiation specialists, and your broader care
team to ensure a coordinated approach focused on the most effective treatment
options for your diagnosis.
We understand that a brain cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming - that’s
why we combine cutting-edge technology with compassionate support to help
you and your loved ones through every stage of care, from diagnosis to recovery.
Contact us today to learn more about brain cancer treatment options in Cody, WY,
or to schedule a consultation with our experienced oncology team
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