Brain Tumor In Human Body

Brain Tumors

“It is curable!!” yes most of the brain tumors can now be safely and successfully treated with modern day surgical techniques. Find out more about our dept. of brain tumor…….

Best Brain Tumor Hospital in Mumbai

At Jaslok Hospital in Mumbai, we understand the profound impact a brain tumor can have on a person’s life and the lives of their loved ones. As one of the leading medical institutions in India, we take immense pride in providing top-notch healthcare services, especially in the field of neurosurgery and brain tumor treatment in Mumbai. Our team of highly qualified, skilled doctors and healthcare professionals are dedicated to offering personalized care and cutting-edge treatments to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.

Overview

Brain tumors are known to be notorious and dreaded ailment among human being since ancient period. Ancient literature shows that this entity was known then but most of these tumors were diagnosed at post-mortem. The situation remained same till 20 th century when development of imaging and other diagnostic modalities helped us to know much about brain tumors, its diagnosis and timely intervention. Till date, a lot of research work has been done over brain tumors to know its pathogenesis, genetic causes and targeted therapies but still many questions are unanswered. Most important part is that despite of advances in
treatment modalities, brain tumors remains one of the dangerous illnesses in terms of both mortality and morbidity.

Brain tumors can be divided into primary and secondary. Primary brain tumors arise in brain itself while secondary tumors are metastasis from malignancies of other body parts. Primary brain tumors are rare as compared to other cancers of body. Although it constitutes about 1 – 2% of total cancers but is responsible for about 20% deaths due to cancer related causes. In India, the incidence is about 2/10000 people. Primary brain tumors are both benign and malignant. About 33% of primary brain tumors are malignant. No age group is spared from brain tumors. It affects all from pediatric age group to elderly patients. The incidence among various age groups is different according to type of tumor. Sex ratio is also variable according to type of tumors. In nutshell, no age group or sex is immune to brain tumors.

Previously brain tumors were classified according to histogenesis and similarities with different putative cells of origin and their presumed level of differentiation (WHO classification 2007) like glioma, meningioma, pituitary tumor, medulloblastoma, ependymoma, chordoma etc. But latest WHO classification 2016 breaks the principle of diagnosis based only on microscopy and incorporates the molecular parameters in classification.

What is Brain Tumor?

A brain tumor is an uncontrolled and abnormal rapid growth of cells in the brain. These tumors can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They may originate from the brain cells/tissue itself or spread from other parts of the body.

Types of Brain Tumors

Understanding the diverse types of brain tumors is of utmost importance for accurate diagnosis and determining the most suitable treatment options.

Gliomas

Gliomas are the most prevalent type, arising from glial cells of the brain that support and nourish nerve cells. This family includes different variations:

  • Astrocytomas

These tumors originate from astrocytes, a specific type of glial cell. They can be either slow-growing (low-grade) or fast-growing and malignant (high-grade), with high-grade astrocytomas like glioblastomas being particularly aggressive, high recurrence rate and challenging to treat with guarded prognosis.

  • Oligodendrogliomas

Forming from oligodendrocytes, another type of glial cell, oligodendrogliomas are relatively uncommon and may have a slower growth rate compared to some other gliomas. They are less aggressive then high grade gliomas in nature and recurrence.

  • Glioblastomas (GBM)

Representing the most severe and aggressive form of gliomas, glioblastomas grow more rapidly and are associated with a poor prognosis.

Meningiomas

Developing in the meninges, the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord, most meningiomas are benign, but some can be more aggressive and challenging to treat.

Pituitary Tumors

Emerging within the pituitary gland at the base of the brain, pituitary tumors can disrupt hormonal regulation of the body and often require specialized treatment, in the form or surgical and medical with hormonal therapy.

Medulloblastomas

Fast-growing, high-grade tumors commonly found in the cerebellum, particularly in children, may interferes with child’s normal development which necessitates its early diagnosis and treatment for better outcomes.

Chordomas

Chordomas are soft, slow-growing tumors that typically arise from the bones, occur at the base of the skull or along the spine, posing treatment challenges and necessitating a comprehensive approach due to its unusual location

Hemangioblastomas

Hemangioblastomas are rare, benign tumors that can occur in the brain and spinal cord, often associated with Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) disease, which is a genetic chromosomal disorder. VHL is also associated with other abnormalities in body along with hemangioblastomas.

Schwannomas

Originating from Schwann cells associated with nerve fibers, schwannomas are usually benign and often occur on nerves related to hearing (vestibular schwannoma). They have a very slow growth rate, but once it disrupts the hearing, it will be permanent.

Pineal Region Tumors

Pineal region tumors, including pineal parenchymal tumors and germ cell tumors, develop in or near the pineal gland (centre of the brain), affecting functions like hormone regulation and sleep-wake cycles. Can occur in any age group from childhood to late elderly age.

Craniopharyngiomas

Typically found near the pituitary gland, craniopharyngiomas can cause complications due to their location. They are usually benign but can significantly affect nearby structures, and interference with vision and hormonal disturbances in body.

Ependymomas

Developed from the ependymal lining of the ventricles or the spinal canal, ependymomas can be slow-growing (low-grade) or more aggressive (high-grade), requiring careful evaluation for appropriate treatment planning.

Symptoms of Brain Tumor

Brain tumor symptoms can vary depending on the tumor’s location, size, and rate of growth. Some common symptoms include:

  • Headaches

Persistent and severe headaches that may worsen over time, especially in the morning.

 

  • Seizures

Uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain which can cause fits, convulsions or blackouts.

 

  • Neurological Deficits

Weakness, numbness, or tingling in the limbs, difficulty in balancing, or problems with vision and speech.

 

  • Cognitive Changes

Memory problems, confusion, and changes in concentration and decision-making abilities. Vomitings: due to increase in intracranial pressure.

Causes of Brain Tumor

The exact causes of brain tumors remain largely unknown, but certain risk factors may increase their likelihood, such as:

  • Age

Brain tumors are more common in older adults, though they can occur at any age.

  • Family History

A history of brain tumors in the family may elevate the risk.

  • Exposure to Radiation

Previous radiation treatments to the head can contribute to tumor development.

  • Weakened Immune System

People with weakened immune systems may have a higher risk.
Exposure to some harmful chemicals or pesticides.

Options for Brain Tumor Treatment in Mumbai

At Jaslok Hospital, we offer a wide range of advanced treatment options for brain tumors. Our team of neurosurgeons, oncologists, and radiation therapists work together to develop personalized treatment plans for each patient. The comprehensive treatment plan includes:

  • Surgery
  • Neurophysiological monitoring
  • Neuronavigation
  • Microscopy
  • Stereotactic Surgery
  • Chemotherapy
  • Gamma knife 
  • Radiotherapy
  • Immunotherapy
  • Post surgical rehabilitation options

Patient Support and Follow-up Care

At Jaslok Hospital, we prioritize the well-being of our patients not only during treatment but also post-treatment. We provide comprehensive support services, including counseling, rehabilitation, and pain management, to ensure a smooth recovery process. Our dedicated team of healthcare professionals ensures that patients receive appropriate follow-up care to monitor their progress and address any concerns.

Why Jaslok Hospital for Brain Tumor Treatment in Mumbai?

Jaslok Hospital has earned its reputation as the best hospital for brain tumor in Mumbai through a combination of excellence, expertise, and empathy. Our commitment to patient-centric care, coupled with cutting-edge technology and innovative treatments, sets us apart as a leading healthcare institution in the field of brain tumour treatment options.

We have the Best Doctors for Brain Tumor in Mumbai

Our team of world-class neurosurgeons and oncologists is the backbone of our success. The team is led by the best Neurosurgeon in India, Dr. Paresh K Doshi. With their extensive experience and expertise in managing complex brain tumor cases, patients can be assured of receiving the highest quality of care possible. Apart from open brain surgeries, he has expertise in stereotactic brain surgeries (minimally invasive) for tumour patients also.

Non-Invasive Therapies for Brain Tumor in Mumbai

At Jaslok Hospital, we understand the importance of offering non-invasive treatment options for brain tumors also. Our state-of-the-art facilities allow us to provide cutting-edge therapies, such as stereotactic radiosurgery and targeted radiation, minimizing the impact on surrounding healthy brain tissue while effectively targeting the tumor cells.

Cutting-edge Technology and Infrastructure

The clinic is equipped with the latest technology and state-of-the-art infrastructure to ensure precise diagnosis and effective brain tumor treatment in Mumbai. Our commitment to staying at the forefront of medical advancements enables us to provide the best possible outcomes for our patients.