A Comprehensive Guide on Brain Tumor Diagnosis & Treatment

A brain tumor is an abnormal mass or growth within the brain that occurs when brain cells rapidly divide and multiply. This cluster of cells eventually disrupts the brain's normal functioning. Brain tumors can develop in two ways: they can either start within the brain or result from cancer cells that are present elsewhere in the body. 

While benign brain tumors are non-cancerous, malignant tumors are cancerous and grow rapidly, affecting nearby organs and tissues. They can even infiltrate nearby brain tissue and spread to other parts of the central nervous system.  

In this blog post, we will provide detailed insights into the types of brain tumors, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options. Read on to learn more. 

Types of Brain Tumors

1. Primary brain tumors

This type of brain tumor originates within the brain and can develop from different types of cells present in the brain. Here are some common types of primary brain tumors:  

• Gliomas are the most common type that forms from glial cells, which provide support and nourishment to the neurons. Gliomas include subtypes like astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas.  
• Meningiomas develop from the meninges, which are the protective membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord. These types of tumors are typically slow-growing and are more common in women.  
• Pituitary tumors develop in the pituitary gland located at the base of the brain. They can disrupt hormone production, leading to hormonal imbalances in the body.
• Medulloblastomas are fast-growing and usually develop in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance. They are more common in children.

2. Secondary brain tumors

Also known as metastatic brain tumors, secondary brain tumors originate in other parts of the body and eventually metastasize and spread to the brain if not treated on time. The following are some common types of cancer that can metastasize to the brain:  

• Lung cancer is one of the most common forms of cancer that metastasizes to the brain, leading to symptoms such as headaches, difficulty with speech or vision, and neurological deficits.  
• Breast cancer often metastasizes to the brain, particularly in advanced stages.   
• Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that spreads rapidly and may metastasize to the brain.   

Symptoms of Brain Tumors

Brain tumors can produce a wide range of symptoms that vary depending on the location, size, and type of tumor. Common brain cancer signs include persistent headaches, seizures, changes in vision or hearing, difficulties with balance or coordination, cognitive changes, personality or mood changes, and focal neurological deficits.   

However, these symptoms may indicate other neurological conditions as well. Therefore, consulting a physician and getting a thorough medical evaluation is necessary for accurate diagnosis and treatment.   

Brain Tumor Diagnosis 

Diagnosing brain tumors involves a careful evaluation of symptoms, followed by specific diagnostic tests, which are as follows:  

1. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

This imaging test uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create high-resolution images of the brain. These images can help identify the size, location, and extent of the tumor.  

2. Computed Tomography (CT) Scan

It involves the use of X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the brain, which can help identify the presence and location of a tumor. It can also assess the tumor size and its effect on surrounding structures. CT scans are particularly useful in emergencies when a quick assessment is required.  

3. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan

In this procedure, oncologists inject a radioactive substance into the body to detect areas of high metabolic activity. PET scans can help determine the tumor's aggressiveness and whether it has metastasized and spread to other body parts.  

Read more: 5 Ways a CT Scan is Different from a PET Scan 

4. Cerebrospinal Fluid (CSF) Analysis

It involves collecting a sample of the fluid surrounding the brain and spinal cord through a lumbar puncture. CSF analysis can help detect tumor markers or cancer cells that may indicate the presence of a brain tumor or metastasis.  

5. Biopsy

With this definitive method, physicians can confirm the presence of cancerous cells and determine the tumor type. In this diagnostic process, oncologists remove a small tissue sample from the tumor for further examination under a microscope. There are various techniques such as stereotactic biopsy (using image guidance), needle biopsy, or open surgery to obtain this sample.

The choice of diagnostic tests differs for every individual, and it largely depends on factors, including the symptoms, medical history, and initial imaging results. Therefore, consult a healthcare professional immediately if an individual exhibits any noticeable symptoms of a brain tumor.  

Treatment Options for Brain Tumors

1. Surgery

In most cases, removing the tumor surgically is the primary treatment option. The goal of the surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible while minimizing damage to healthy brain tissue.

Depending on the tumor's location and size, different surgical techniques may be employed, such as craniotomy, endoscopic surgery, or stereotactic biopsy. A craniotomy is the most common surgical procedure performed in these cases. It involves creating an opening in the skull to access and remove the mass.

2. Radiation therapy 

Surgery is often followed by radiation therapy, in which oncologists use high-energy beams, such as X-rays or protons, to kill or shrink the remaining tumor cells. Oncologists also consider it the primary treatment option for inoperable brain tumors. Techniques like stereotactic radiosurgery or fractionated radiation therapy are used to deliver precise doses of radiation to the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

3. Chemotherapy

Healthcare providers often recommend chemotherapy for malignant or recurrent brain cancer treatment. It helps destroy cancerous cells or inhibit their growth.    

4. Targeted therapy

This procedure utilizes certain drugs to specifically target certain molecular changes or mutations in tumor cells. They disrupt the growth and survival of cancer cells, often leading to better treatment outcomes. Targeted therapy is an evolving field and researchers are continuously trying to increase its efficacy for the treatment for specific cancer.  

Read more: All You Need to Know About Targeted Therapy for Cancer 

5. Immunotherapy

Brain cancer treatment options include immunotherapy, a treatment approach that utilizes the body's immune system to recognize and attack cancer cells. Immunotherapy stimulates the immune response against the tumor, helping to control its growth. The use of immunotherapy is still being researched for brain tumors, and clinical trials are ongoing to explore its effectiveness. 

Read more: How Immunotherapy Treats Cancer 

Apart from these treatment procedures, oncologists may also prescribe steroids to reduce brain swelling caused by the tumor. In cases where seizures occur due to the brain tumor, they may recommend anti-epileptic medications to manage the symptoms.  

Treatment plans for brain tumors are highly individualized, and require a comprehensive approach tailored to the specific type, location, and stage of the tumor. Contact a cancer treatment center and consult a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals for detailed guidance.  

Prognosis

The likelihood of recurrence depends on multiple factors, such as the tumor type, grade, extent of resection, and response to previous treatments. For instance, high-grade tumors like glioblastomas have a higher recurrence rate compared to low-grade tumors.  

For high-grade malignant brain tumors, such as glioblastoma, survival rates can be relatively low. The five-year survival rate for glioblastoma is around 5% to 10%. However, there are variations depending on factors such as age and treatment response.  

For lower-grade brain tumors, such as grade II or III gliomas, the survival rates can be more favorable. The five-year survival rate for grade II gliomas ranges from approximately 50% to 80%.  

However, advancements in treatments and ongoing research are continuously improving outcomes and survival rates.

The Bottom Line

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 24,810 malignant tumors of the brain or spinal cord will be diagnosed in 2023. Therefore, individuals should seek immediate medical attention if they experience any symptoms, discomfort, or abnormalities that may indicate the presence of a brain tumor. For any queries or concerns about brain cancer, contact ACTC, one of the best cancer treatment centers in Florida, offering personalized cancer care plans.