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What is a Brain Tumor?
A brain tumor is an abnormal mass of tissue in the brain. Brain tumors can be either cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign). Malignant brain tumors can spread to other parts of the body, while benign brain tumors do not.
Brain tumors can form in any part of the head, including the skull, meninges, and brain tissue. The type and severity of symptoms will depend on the location and size of the tumor.
What causes brain tumors?
The exact brain tumors causes is unknown. However, there are several risk factors that may increase the risk of developing a brain tumor, including:
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Age
Brain tumors can occur at any age, but they are most common in children and older adults.
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Family History
People with a family history of brain tumors are at increased risk of developing the disease.
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Genetic Syndromes
Some genetic syndromes, such as neurofibromatosis and tuberous sclerosis, increase the risk of developing brain tumors.
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Exposure to Radiation
Exposure to high levels of radiation, such as from X-rays or nuclear fallout, can increase the risk of developing brain tumors.
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Certain Chemicals
Exposure to certain chemicals, such as vinyl chloride and arsenic, has been linked to an increased risk of brain tumors.
To know more visit the best neurosurgery hospital in Gurugram. Book an appointment now.
How many types of brain tumors are there?
There are over 150 different types of brain tumors recorded in medical history. The most common types of primary brain tumors are listed below:
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Gliomas
Gliomas are the most common type of brain tumor. They arise from glial cells, which are cells that support the neurons in the brain.
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Meningiomas
Meningiomas are tumors that arise from the meninges, which are the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.
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Medulloblastomas
Medulloblastomas are tumors that arise from the cerebellum, which is a part of the brain that controls coordination and balance.
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Pituitary Adenomas
Pituitary adenomas are tumors that arise from the pituitary gland, which is a gland located at the base of the brain.
Grading of Tumors
Brain tumors can also be classified by their grade, which is a measure of how aggressive the tumor is. Grade I tumors are the least aggressive and grow slowly, while grade IV tumors are the most aggressive and grow quickly. Grading of Brain tumors is done after a thorough medical examination of the patient. The doctors, or neurologists observe the patient, draw correlations from their medical reports and then provide a prognosis on the case. Manipal Hospitals Gurugram is equipped with the latest diagnostic tools and technology to help patients get precise diagnoses and care.
Symptoms Of Brain Tumor
The brain tumor symptoms will vary depending on the location and size of the tumor. Some common symptoms of brain tumors include:
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Headaches
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Seizures
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Vision changes
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Hearing changes
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Balance problems
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Weakness or paralysis in one part or one side of the body.
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Difficulty thinking, speaking, or understanding language.
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Personality changes
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Nausea and vomiting
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Confusion and disorientation
If you or someone you know has been experiencing these symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a neurologist or brain doctor at the earliest. Manipal Hospitals Gurugram has the best neurologist in Gurugram to help you find the right treatment and medical support through the healing journey.
Diagnosis of Brain Tumor
If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed above, it is important to see a doctor right away. A doctor can perform a physical examination and neurological exam to assess your symptoms. They may also order imaging tests, such as an MRI or CT scan, to get a better look at the brain.
Treatment of Brain Tumor
The brain tumor treatment will depend on the type, grade, and location of the tumor. Some common treatments for brain tumors include:
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Surgery
Surgery is the most common treatment for brain tumors. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible.
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Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy can be used to shrink a tumor before surgery or to kill any remaining cancer cells after surgery.
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Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy can be used to treat brain tumors that cannot be surgically removed or that have spread to other parts of the body.
Prognosis
The prognosis for brain tumors varies depending on the type, grade, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's age and overall health. The survival rate for brain tumors has improved significantly in recent years, but it is still a serious disease.
Brain tumors are a complex disease, and there is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment. The best way to treat a brain tumor is to consult with a neurologist, understand the prognosis and find the best multispecialty hospital around you. Manipal Hospitals Gurugram has some of the best neurologists and neurosurgeons in Delhi NCR to help you take care of your loved ones.
