brain tumors

Brain tumors are abnormal growths of cells in the brain. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and can originate in the brain itself (primary brain tumors) or spread to the brain from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic brain tumors).

Types of Brain Tumors:

1. Primary Brain Tumors: Originate in the brain.

• Gliomas: Tumors that start in the glial cells. Types include astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and glioblastomas.
• Meningiomas: Tumors that develop in the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
• Pituitary Adenomas: Tumors that occur in the pituitary gland.
• Schwannomas: Tumors that develop from Schwann cells, which produce the myelin sheath covering nerves.
• Medulloblastomas: Highly malignant tumors that originate in the cerebellum, most common in children.
• Craniopharyngiomas: Benign tumors near the pituitary gland, affecting hormone production.

2. Secondary (Metastatic) Brain Tumors: Originate elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain.

• Common cancers that metastasize to the brain include lung cancer, breast cancer, melanoma, kidney cancer, and colon cancer.

Symptoms of Brain Tumors:

Symptoms vary depending on the tumor's size, type, and location but may include:

• Headaches, often worse in the morning or when lying down
• Seizures
• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in speech, vision, or hearing
• Balance or coordination problems
• Changes in personality or behavior
• Memory problems
• Weakness or numbness in parts of the body