Understanding Brain Tumours: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Brain tumours are a complex and serious medical condition that can impact the quality of life and overall health. At GHC Hospitals, a leading multispecialty hospital, we prioritise patient education and early intervention in treating brain tumours. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to understanding brain tumours, including their symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options. By raising awareness, we hope to encourage early detection and provide patients with the best possible outcomes.

What Are Brain Tumours?

A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or central spinal cord. These tumours can be classified into two main types:

1. Primary Brain Tumours: These originate within the brain itself. They can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Common types include gliomas, meningiomas, and pituitary adenomas.
2. Secondary (Metastatic) Brain Tumours: These are cancerous tumours that have spread to the brain from other parts of the body, such as the lungs, breast, or colon. Metastatic brain tumours are always considered malignant.

Common Symptoms of Brain Tumours

The symptoms of brain tumours vary depending on the tumour’s size, location, and rate of growth. While some tumours may remain asymptomatic for a long time, others can cause significant health issues. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

1. Persistent Headaches:

One of the earliest and most common signs of a brain tumour is a persistent headache, often described as more severe in the morning. Unlike typical headaches, these may not respond to over-the-counter pain relievers.

2. Seizures:

Sudden onset of seizures, especially in individuals with no history of epilepsy, can be a strong indicator of a brain tumour. Seizures may vary in type and severity, ranging from mild twitching to full-blown convulsions.

3. Vision or Hearing Problems:

Blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision can occur if the tumour is located near the optic nerve. Hearing loss or ringing in the ears may also be a symptom if the tumour affects the auditory pathways.

4. Cognitive Changes:

Difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and confusion are common symptoms, especially if the tumour affects the frontal or temporal lobes, which are responsible for cognitive functions.

5. Motor Skill Impairment:

Tumours in the cerebellum or brainstem may cause difficulties with balance, coordination, and fine motor skills. Weakness or numbness in one side of the body can also be a sign.

6. Speech and Language Difficulties:

Difficulty speaking, understanding language, or finding the right words may occur if the tumour affects the areas of the brain responsible for language processing.

7. Changes in Mood or Personality:

Unexplained mood swings, increased irritability, or changes in personality can sometimes be linked to the presence of a brain tumour.

Diagnosing Brain Tumours

Early diagnosis of brain tumours is crucial for effective treatment. At GHC Hospitals, we employ a range of advanced diagnostic tools to accurately identify brain tumours and determine their characteristics.

1. Neurological Examination:

A thorough neurological exam assesses the patient’s vision, hearing, balance, coordination, reflexes, and cognitive abilities. Abnormalities may suggest the presence of a brain tumour.

2. Imaging Studies:

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI is the most common and effective imaging technique for diagnosing brain tumours. It provides detailed images of the brain, helping to identify the tumour’s size, location, and type.

Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: CT scans are often used in emergency situations to quickly detect brain tumours, especially when MRI is not available.

3. Biopsy:

A biopsy involves removing a small sample of the tumour tissue for examination under a microscope. This procedure helps determine whether the tumour is benign or malignant and identifies its type, guiding treatment decisions.

4. Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan:

PET scans are sometimes used to assess the metabolic activity of the tumour, providing additional information about its behaviour and potential for growth.

5. Lumbar Puncture (Spinal Tap):

In some cases, a lumbar puncture may be performed to analyse cerebrospinal fluid for the presence of cancer cells or other abnormalities.

Treatment Options for Brain Tumours

Treatment for brain tumours varies based on the tumour type, size, location, and the patient’s overall health. At GHC Hospitals, we offer a multidisciplinary approach to brain tumour treatment, combining the expertise of neurosurgeons, oncologists, and radiation specialists.

1. Surgery:

Craniotomy: The most common surgical procedure for brain tumours involves removing part of the skull to access and remove the tumour. Advances in surgical techniques, including minimally invasive approaches, have improved the safety and effectiveness of these procedures.

Endoscopic Surgery: For tumours located in hard-to-reach areas, endoscopic surgery offers a less invasive option. This technique uses small incisions and specialised instruments to remove the tumour with minimal disruption to surrounding tissue.

2. Radiation Therapy:

External Beam Radiation: This treatment uses high-energy beams to target and destroy tumour cells. It is often used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancerous cells or as the primary treatment for inoperable tumours.

Stereotactic Radiosurgery: A highly precise form of radiation therapy, stereotactic radiosurgery delivers focused radiation beams to the tumour, minimising damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It is particularly effective for small or deep-seated tumours.

3. Chemotherapy:

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing. It can be administered orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with surgery or radiation therapy.

4. Targeted Therapy:

Targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances to specifically target cancer cells without affecting normal cells. This approach can be especially effective for certain types of brain tumours that have specific genetic mutations.

5. Immunotherapy:

Immunotherapy harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. It is a newer treatment option for brain tumours, with ongoing research exploring its potential benefits.

6. Clinical Trials:

Patients at GHC Hospitals may have the opportunity to participate in clinical trials, gaining access to cutting-edge treatments that are not yet widely available.

Recovery and Outlook

The prognosis for brain tumour patients varies widely depending on the tumour type, location, and the effectiveness of treatment. Early detection and treatment significantly improve the chances of a successful outcome. At GHC Hospitals, we provide comprehensive post-treatment care, including rehabilitation services and support for patients and their families.

Conclusion

Understanding brain tumours is the first step toward effective treatment and better outcomes. At GHC Hospitals, we are committed to providing the highest standard of care through advanced diagnostic tools and a wide range of treatment options. If you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms of a brain tumour, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. Early diagnosis and treatment can make a significant difference in the quality of life and overall prognosis.

For more information or to schedule a consultation, please contact GHC Hospitals today. We are here to support you every step of the way.