Brain Cancer
Overview of Brain Cancer
Brain cancer is the disease of the brain where the abnormal cells grow to form a mass (tumor), which interferes with the functions of the brain like muscle control, sensation, memory and others. All tumors are not cancerous. Cancerous tumors are malignant and spread uncontrollably overpowering the healthy cells. They even take nutrients, blood and space from the healthy cells. Benign tumors are less serious than malignant tumors but still cause problems to the brain. Brain tumor is of two types.
- Primary brain tumor: This originates in the brain and grows within the limited space in the skull.
- Secondary brain tumor: This is also called as metastatic brain tumor and the tumor cells formed would have migrated from other parts of the body. Metastatic brain tumor indicates advanced stage of the of disease condition.
Occurence of Brain Cancer in Different Groups
Brain cancer is the leading cause of death from cancer in persons who are less than 35 years of age. Studies have indicated that the incidence rates of brain cancer have increased among the elderly and the children also.1,2
The annual incidence of primary brain tumor ranges from 7 to 19.1 cases per 100,000 populations. Brain tumors are the second most common form of cancer seen in children, comprising 15–25% of all pediatric malignancies.3 It is also seen that 10–15% of people suffer from metastatic brain tumor.4
Brain tumors can occur to anybody without any differentiation between race and gender. Metastatic brain cancers have the greatest risk when compared to other types of cancers. Males have a 0.66% lifetime risk of suffering from primary malignant brain tumor when compared to females who have 0.54% lifetime risk.5
Recent epidemiological studies have linked the occurrence of brain tumors to the use of cellular phones.6
Signs and Symptoms of Brain Cancer
Signs of Brain cancer
Flow of cerebrospinal fluid is blocked due to the tumor formation in the brain. This leads to accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid and increases cranial pressure. Brain tumors may damage and condense the neurological pathways.
Causes and Risk Factors of Brain Cancer
Causes and risk factors of Brain cancer
The exact cause of brain tumor is not known. Some causes and risk factors are Individual cell mutations, Tumors originating from acoustic neuroma and meningioma, inherited diseases like neurofibromatosis, tuberousclerosis, retinoblastoma, multiple endocrine neoplasia type 1, Von Hippel-Lindau disease.
Diagnosis of Brain Cancer
Diagnosis of Brain cancer
Brain tumor is diagnosed based on the symptoms.9 A detailed medical history, physical examination and neurological examination are conducted to assess the symptoms.
Treatment of Brain Cancer
Treatment of Brain cancer
A physician may recommend treatment based on the diagnosis. The treatments may be suggested are surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and alternative treatment.
Management of Brain Cancer
Management of Brain cancer
Primary brain tumor is difficult to manage, as it may occur without any cause. Secondary brain tumor can be managed by good nutritional diet rich in fiber,quit smoking, Avoid excessive use of alcohol.
Written by: Healthplus24 team
Date last updated: July 06, 2011