Brain Tumors in Brief

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain or the membranes surrounding the brain (a tumor known as a meningioma). The tumor increases pressure inside the skull and so exerts pressure on the entire brain: this phenomenon is responsible for many of the symptoms of brain tumors regardless of whether they are benign or malignant. Primary brain tumors originate in the brain but are much less common than secondary, or metastatic, tumors, which spread to the brain from cancers elsewhere in the body. Symptoms tend to appear gradually and vary according to the area of the brain affected. Primary malignant brain tumors are rare, accounting for less than 2 percent of all cancers.

Causes

The cause of primary brain tumors is unknown. Metastatic tumors may spread from cancers of the lungs, liver, intestines, breast, skin or other parts of the body.

Symptoms

• Frequent headaches that are more painful when lying down
• Vomiting, with or without nausea
• Blurred or double vision
• Seizures
• Impaired thinking, mental confusion or coma

Other symptoms depend on the location of the tumor within the brain and may include weakness or unsteadiness, paralysis on one side of the body, dizziness, speech difficulty, memory loss, loss of the sense of smell or hearing or change in personality.

Diagnosis

A thorough patient history and physical examination are necessary. Computed tomography (CT) scans or a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan may be necessary to locate the tumor.

To perform a spinal tap (lumbar puncture), the doctor uses a needle to remove and analyze a sample of the cerebrospinal fluid surrounding the spinal cord. Spinal taps should not be performed if other diagnostic imaging techniques reveal evidence of a mass; under those circumstances, a spinal tap is dangerous.

A biopsy of the tumor will most likely be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. Electroencephalography may be used to measure and assess electrical activity in the brain. Cerebral arteriography may be used in preparation for surgery to outline the arteries supplying blood to the tumor.

Treatment

Tumors near the surface of the brain may be surgically removed. In many cases, however, it is possible to remove only a portion of a tumor, since taking it all out would cause unacceptable amounts of brain damage. Still, removing even part of it may afford a period of improvement by relieving pressure within the cranium. Tumors deep within the brain may be treated with microsurgery, laser surgery or radiation therapy. For malignant primary tumors, surgery may be followed with radiation or chemotherapy. Surgery may also be preceded by radiation. Your doctor may prescribe pain relievers, corticosteroids to reduce swelling of brain tissue and anticonvulsant drugs to control seizures.

When to call your doctor

Call a doctor if you ever have a seizure, if you experience double vision or if you notice weakness, numbness or loss of sensation in the limbs. Consult your doctor if you experience a severe, persistent headache, especially one that is worse in the mornings or when lying down.

Last Updated: 1/15/2003
The Johns Hopkins University 1996-2003.  All rights reserved.  This information is not intended to provide advice on personal medical matters, nor is it intended to be a substitute for consultation.