What is a brain tumor?
A brain tumor is an overgrowth of abnormal cells in the brain. Brain tumors may be benign or malignant.
Benign brain tumor
A benign brain tumor is a noncancerous tumor. This means the abnormal mass of cells is unlikely to grow rapidly or spread to other areas of the body.
Malignant brain tumor
A malignant brain tumor is a cancerous tumor. With brain cancer, the abnormal cells grow quickly and aggressively.
What are the types of brain tumors?
Currently, there are over 150 documented types of brain tumors, which are classified as benign or malignant.
Types of benign brain tumors include:
- Chordomas - found at the base of the skull or top of spine
- Craniopharyngiomas - develop from pituitary glands
- Gangliocytomas - abnormal growth of nerve cells
- Glomus jugulare - located near the jugular vein
- Schwannomas - develop along nerve cells in the brain
Gliomas are the most common type of malignant brain tumors. They develop from supportive brain cells, such as astrocytes (astrocytomas) and ependymal cells (ependymomas).
What are brain tumor symptoms?
The symptoms you experience with a brain tumor depend on the type and location of the tumor. Common symptoms include:
- Abnormal head pain
- Headaches that worsen over time
- Nausea and vomiting
- Difficulty maintaining balance
- Change in behavior or personality
Though anyone can develop a brain tumor, you may be at greater risk if they run in your family or you experience exposure to radiation.
What can I expect during a brain tumor consultation?
You can expect a comprehensive and compassionate evaluation when you come in for a brain tumor consultation at Oklahoma Spine & Brain Institute.
The team takes a patient-centered approach to care, and the details of your consultation depend on your specific needs and symptoms.
During the evaluation, your provider reviews your symptoms and medical history and then performs a neurological and physical exam. Diagnostic testing, such as an MRI, may be requested to determine the type, size, and location of your brain tumor.
Your provider may also recommend a biopsy.
What are brain tumor treatments?
Your provider develops an individualized brain tumor treatment plan based on type, location, symptoms, and medical history. Treatment may include procedures aimed at removing the tumor.
In addition to performing a traditional craniotomy for removal of a brain tumor, the team at Oklahoma Spine & Brain Institute also offers Visualase MRI-guided laser ablation. During the procedure, the provider uses thermal energy to remove the abnormal growth.
The team performs Visualase laser ablation at a surgical center.
The experienced neurosurgeons also use the CyberKnife® System for the treatment of brain tumors. The noninvasive robotic tool uses targeted radiation therapy to get rid of the tumor.
To learn more about your brain tumor treatment options, call Oklahoma Spine & Brain Institute to book an appointment today.
