Brain Tumors are aggregations of growth of atypical cells in the brain that eventually cause pressure to the tissues and nerves of the brain if left untreated. This unusual proliferation of growths inside the skull may vary in size, shape and properties and can inhibit normal functioning of the brain.
There are different types of brain tumors that are classified in three categories: benign, malignant or secondary brain tumors. Depending on the location of the tumors, different functions of the body may be altered, causing a range of disabilities and dysfunctions depending on the surrounding tissue of the tumor that governs a particular function of the body. All three types of tumors can lead to a range of symptoms varying from migraines and headaches to seizures and epilepsy. They may be characterized by a gradual loss of mobility in arms or legs as well as mental and behavioral problems such as loss of memory, hearing, coordination, vision and speech.
Malignant growths, are considered as a cancerous type of tumor, are the ones most likely to cause damage to the surrounding tissues of the brain and may spread to other parts of the brain or body. Whereas, secondary brain tumors are like malignant tumors, but are developed from a cancerous tumor that has spread to the brain from another part of the body. Benign tumors are characterized as being non-cancerous and do not spread to other parts of the brain or body. However, benign tumors developing within the brain, if left untreated, can become malignant over time.
Most brain tumors are easily diagnosed by radiologic imaging tests such as a CT (computed tomography) or by an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). The diagnostic imaging may further guide the surgeon as to what type of surgical approach to take in removing the tumor, either by transnasal approach, through the ears or by endoscopic approach also known as a stereotactic biopsy. Fortunately, many brain tumors are nowadays surgically removed, depending on its size and location in the skull and usually exhibit a good chance of recovery. However, some remnant tumors may aggregate themselves slowly with time and treatment with radiotherapy or additional surgery may be needed.
