Doctors
About the condition
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain which can be benign (cancerous) or malignant (non-cancerous). Benign brain tumours do not contain cancer cells. Usually the tumour can be removed and it seldom grows back. The benign tumour cells do not invade tissues around them or spread to other parts of the body. However, benign brain tumour can press on the sensitive part of the brain and cause serious health problems. The tumour can be life threatening.
Malignant brain tumours contain cancer cells and are generally more serious than benign brain tumour. These tumours are often more life threatening. The malignant tumour cells are likely to grow rapidly and invade the surrounding brain tissues.
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Causes of the condition
The exact cause of brain tumour remains unknown.
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Signs & Symptoms
- Headaches
- Unexplained nausea or vomiting
- Difficult with balance
- Confusion in everyday matters
- Personality or behavior changes
- Hearing problems
- Speech difficulties
- Vision problems
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Test and diagnosis
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
- Neurological examination
- Tests to trace cancer in other parts of body
- Collecting and testing a sample of abnormal tissue (biopsy)
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Treatment
- Surgery
- Radiation therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted drug therapy
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