Brain Tumor: Types, Risk Factors, Symptoms, and Treatment

A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain. However, not all brain tumours are cancerous. Around 70% of all brain tumours are benign.

Benign or non-cancerous tumours tend to grow slowly but may cause significant health issues due to their location and size. Some symptoms it can lead to include headaches, seizures, weakness of limbs, visual & speech problems and neurological deficits. 

Malignant tumours are cancerous and may spread to nearby tissues and even other parts of the body. These are generally more aggressive and require intensive and urgent treatment. 

Dr. Ashish Gupta, Senior Director- Neurosurgery & Spine surgery at Max Super Speciality Hospital, Patparganj, provides valuable insights into the brain tumours, their treatment, and outcome. "It's important to understand that a brain tumour diagnosis is not always synonymous with cancer", says Dr. Ashish Gupta. "Benign brain tumours, while non-cancerous, can still impact a patient's quality of life and require early treatment to manage symptoms and prevent complications".

Dr Gupta further explains, "The outcome for benign brain tumours is often much better than that for malignant tumours. With proper treatment, patients with benign tumours are treatable and can lead a normal, healthy life".

Symptoms and Diagnosis

Detecting a brain tumour early involves being aware of symptoms, undergoing regular medical check-ups, and utilising diagnostic imaging. The symptoms of brain tumours depend on their size, type, and location within the brain. Common symptoms include:

• Persistent headaches
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Blurred vision
• Weakness of limbs
• Loss of consciousness
• Fits (seizures) 
• Changes in personality. 

"The key to effective treatment lies in early detection and accurate diagnosis," notes Dr. Gupta. "Advanced imaging techniques such as MRI and CT scans play a crucial role in the diagnosis of brain tumours".

Treatment Options

Treatment for brain tumours is tailored to the type, size, and location of the tumour, as well as the patient's overall health. Options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies.

"Surgery is often the first line of treatment for both benign and malignant tumours", says Dr Gupta. "In most cases, minimally invasive techniques may be used to reduce recovery time and improve outcomes". The advantages of advanced neuro navigation systems for spine & brain surgeries are:

• High precision 
• Minimal radiation exposure 
• Minimal invasion
• Painless brain surgery
• Submillimeter accuracy
• CT & MRI image fusion for enhanced accuracy
• Shorter stay in hospital

Living with a brain tumour, whether benign or malignant, requires a comprehensive treatment plan and ongoing monitoring. Patients often benefit from a multidisciplinary approach, including support from oncologists, radiologists, and rehabilitation specialists.

"Support from family, friends, and healthcare professionals is vital," emphasises Dr. Gupta. "With the right care and resources, many patients can manage their condition effectively and maintain a good quality of life."

Dr Ashish Gupta's insights remind us that while the word 'tumour' might be alarming, not all brain tumours are cancerous. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and tailored treatment are key to managing these conditions effectively.