Understanding Brain Tumours
What is Brain Tumor? (Brain Tumor Kya Hota Hai?)
A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in or around the brain. It can be non-cancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). These tumors can originate in the brain (primary brain tumor) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic brain cancer). The term “brain cancer” typically refers to malignant tumors.
Brain Tumor Definition & Meaning
The definition of brain tumor is a mass or growth of abnormal brain cells. The meaning lies in its ability to press on brain structures, affecting normal brain function.
Brain Tumor Classification & Types
The WHO brain tumor classification system grades tumors from Grade I to IV based on their growth rate and behavior.
Grade I is the least aggressive, while Grade IV (like glioblastoma) is the most dangerous.
There are over 120 types of brain tumors. Common ones
- Gliomas (e.g., astrocytoma, glioblastoma)
- Meningiomas
- Pituitary adenomas
- Medulloblastomas
- Schwannomas
How Brain Tumor Occurs
A brain tumor occurs when there is uncontrolled cell growth in brain tissues. But why brain tumor occurs? The exact cause is unknown, but factors include:
- Genetic mutations
- Exposure to radiation
- Family history (Yes, brain tumor can be hereditary in some cases)
Brain Tumor Ke Lakshan (Symptoms)
Brain tumor early symptoms vary depending on the tumor’s location and size. Common brain tumor warning signs
- Persistent headaches (especially in the morning)
- Vomiting or nausea
- Seizures
- Vision problems
- Speech difficulties
- Personality changes
- Weakness or numbness
Brain Tumour Headache – How to Recognize?
A brain tumor headache is often dull, persistent, and worsens over time. It may intensify in the morning or after coughing/sneezing.
How Brain Tumor is Diagnosed Diagnosis involves:
- Neurological exam
- MRI or CT scans (for brain tumor photo and imaging)
- Biopsy (to determine the tumor type)
- Molecular testing
Is Brain Tumour Dangerous?
Yes, brain tumor can be dangerous, especially if malignant or located in critical brain areas. Even benign tumors can cause serious complications by pressing on surrounding brain tissues.
Brain Tumour Treatment Options
- Brain Tumor Medicine
Steroids to reduce swelling
Anticonvulsants to control seizures
Chemotherapy drugs like temozolomide
2. Brain Tumor Therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
- Immunotherapy
3. Brain Tumor Operation
Surgical removal is often the first step. The brain tumor operation success rate depends on tumor type, size, and location. Some tumors are completely removable; others may need partial removal followed by therapy.
- Brain tumor operation cost in India ranges from ₹2 lakhs to ₹10 lakhs depending on complexity and hospital.
Can Brain Tumor Be Treated?
Yes, many brain tumors can be cured, especially if diagnosed early. However, some aggressive tumors are hard to treat fully. So, which brain tumor is curable? Generally:
- Meningiomas and low-grade gliomas are often
- Glioblastoma is more challenging and less likely to be
Will Brain Tumor Kill You?
Not always. But untreated or aggressive brain tumors can be fatal. Early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve survival chances.
How Long Brain Tumor Patient Can Survive?
Survival depends on tumor type and treatment. For instance:
- Benign tumors – 5-year survival rate > 90%
- Glioblastoma – 5-year survival ~5%
Similarly, how long brain cancer patient can live varies. Some live for months; others survive for years with treatment.
How Brain Tumor Look Like?
A brain tumor photo on MRI or CT scan shows a mass, sometimes with swelling or fluid around it. Shapes and sizes vary.
How Brain Tumor Is Formed?
They form from genetic mutations that cause abnormal cell division in brain tissues.
Is Brain Tumor Rare?
Yes, brain tumors are relatively rare, but they are among the most feared cancers due to their critical location.
When Brain Tumor Happens?
Brain tumors can occur at any age but are more common in children and older adults.
Are Brain Tumor Hereditary?
In most cases, brain tumors are not hereditary, but some rare syndromes (like Li-Fraumeni or NF1) increase risk.
Treatment Options
The best treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumour, as well as the patient’s overall health.
- Surgery
The most common initial treatment. Surgeons aim to remove as much of the tumour as possible without damaging normal brain function. In some cases, advanced techniques like neuronavigation, awake craniotomy, or stereotactic biopsy are used.
- Radiation Therapy
High-energy rays target tumour cells. It’s often used when surgery isn’t feasible or as a follow-up treatment.
- Traditional external beam radiation
- Stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife, CyberKnife)
- Chemotherapy
Drugs are used to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. Oral or IV chemotherapy may be used depending on the tumour type.
- Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy
Advanced treatments that use the body’s immune system or targeted molecules to fight cancer cells with fewer side effects.
- Rehabilitation
Post-treatment therapy may include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language therapy to help regain lost functions.
Living with a Brain Tumour
Recovery from a brain tumour is a journey. Support from Neurosurgeons, Neurologists, Oncologists, Psychologists, and Rehabilitation experts is crucial.
Tips for patients and caregivers:
- Follow up regularly with healthcare providers
- Join a support group
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Stay informed, but avoid misinformation
Conclusion
Brain tumors are serious but often manageable with timely care. Knowing the brain tumor early symptoms, understanding brain tumor classification, and seeking prompt diagnosis can make a life-saving difference.
If you or someone you know experiences persistent headaches, vision issues, or personality changes, consult a neurosurgeon immediately.
