CMMC Neuroscience Center

Brain Tumors

Basic Information

Brain tumors are growths within the cranium, often referred to as neoplasms. Tumors may be benign, such as with meningioma, or malignant as in gliomas. Brain tumors originate from the cells within the brain, such as the meningeal cells, supportive cells of the brain (glia), and fluid-producing cells (ependyma). As they grow, they may produce a variety of symptoms. Some tumors grow quickly and produce symptoms rapidly; others grow more slowly and may only be detected at a late stage. In addition, there are also brain tumors that originate from cancer elsewhere in the body, and then spread to the brain; this is called a metastatic brain tumor. Common sources are lung, breast and colon cancer.

Symptoms

• Slowly progressing loss of strength or sensation on one side of the body
  
• Steady and relentlessly progressing headache, especially that is worst upon awakening
  
• Epileptic seizures
  
• Changes or loss of vision
  
• Persistent nausea/vomiting
  
  

Treatment Available

• Surgical excision of the tumor, both for tissue typing (biopsy) and removal
  
• Radiation therapy and radiation implants
  
• Chemotherapy
  
• Chemotherapy with blood/brain barrier disruption (experimental)
  
• Catheter-delivered embolization
  

Research

• Understanding the origin of tumors and the biology that produces uncontrolled growth
  
• Clinical trials of new forms of chemotherapy
  
• Surgical trials to improve surgical techniques
  
• Genetic studies
  

Web Site: National Brain Tumor Foundation