Malignant Brain Tumors

What is Malignant Brain Tumors ?

Brain tumors are made of cells growing and reproducing in an uncontrolled fashion. A benign brain tumor is formed from abnormal cells that form a distinct boundary from the surrounding normal brain. A malignant brain tumor is dangerous because it consists of cancerous cells growing into adjacent brain tissue so that it may no longer function normally.

Causes of Malignant Brain Tumors

The cause of brain tumors is unknown.

Signs & Symptoms of Malignant Brain Tumors

Signs and symptoms can include the following:

• New onset or change in pattern of headaches
• Difficulty with balance
• Speech difficulties
• Confusion in everyday matters
• Hormonal (endocrine) disorders
• Headaches that gradually become more frequent and more severe
• Nausea or vomiting

Diagnostic Tests

In many cases, a definitive diagnosis follows a tissue biopsy performed by stereotactic surgery. In this procedure, a head ring is affixed to the skull, and an excisional device is guided to the lesion by computed tomography scanning or magnetic resonance imaging.

Treatment

Treatment for a brain tumor — along with survival odds — depends on the type, size and location of the tumor, as well as your age and overall health. Your doctor will tailor treatment to fit your particular situation. The main treatment methods for brain tumors include:

• Surgery. It is necessary for most primary brain tumors. Some may be completely removed. Tumors that are deep or that infiltrate brain tissue may be debulked (reducing the tumor's size and mass) rather than removed.
• Radiation. High-energy radiation can be used to destroy tumor cells in your brain.
• Chemotherapy. These drugs, taken by mouth or intravenously, can help kill cancerous tumor cells.