Understanding this cancer
Brain and spinal-cord tumours include many benign and malignant types. A primary brain tumour starts in the brain; a brain metastasis began elsewhere. Location, pathology, molecular findings and effects on brain function are crucial.
Signs to discuss with a doctor
New seizures, worsening headaches, repeated vomiting, weakness, speech or vision change, confusion, personality change, balance problems or loss of consciousness need urgent medical assessment.
Risk factors
Most primary brain tumours have no known preventable cause. Risk can be affected by age, rare inherited syndromes and previous ionising radiation. Everyday mobile-phone use has not been established as a cause by major health authorities.
Tests and diagnosis
MRI is usually central. Surgery or biopsy provides tissue for integrated pathology and molecular diagnosis when safe and appropriate. Neurologic, eye, hormone and functional assessments may also be needed depending on location.
Treatment approaches
Options include observation for selected low-risk tumours, surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and supportive rehabilitation. Steroids or anti-seizure medicines may manage symptoms but must be prescribed by clinicians.
Prevention and screening
There is no established population screening or general prevention programme for most brain tumours. Avoid unnecessary ionising radiation and seek prompt assessment for new neurologic symptoms.
Questions for your care team
Is this primary or metastatic? What are the integrated pathology and molecular results? Is surgery safe, and what function could be affected? What rehabilitation and seizure plan is needed?