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Brain tumors are abnormal growths of cells in the brain that can be either cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign)123. They can originate in the brain (primary brain tumors) or spread from other parts of the body (secondary or metastatic brain tumors)124.Key points:
- Brain tumors can cause pressure on the brain tissue and disrupt brain function12
- Symptoms depend on the tumor’s size, location, and growth rate, and may include headaches, seizures, vision problems, and changes in behavior or cognition23
- Treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the type and characteristics of the tumor13
Prevalence and incidence:
- Primary brain tumors are relatively uncommon, with about 5 cases per 100,000 people diagnosed each year in the U.S.3
- Brain tumors are the most common solid tumor in children, affecting around 4,100 children under 15 each year in the U.S.3
Risk factors:
- The exact cause is often unknown, but risk factors may include exposure to radiation, certain genetic syndromes, and viral infections34
- Studies on mobile phone use have not shown a clear link to brain tumor risk4
Diagnosis:
- Imaging tests like CT scans and MRI are used to detect and characterize brain tumors13
- A biopsy may be performed to confirm the type and grade of the tumor3
Treatment and management:
- Surgery is often the first line of treatment to remove as much of the tumor as possible13
- Radiation therapy and chemotherapy may be used in combination with surgery or alone13
- Medications like anticonvulsants, steroids, and diuretics may be used to manage symptoms and side effects3
The prognosis for brain tumors varies widely depending on the type, location, and grade of the tumor, as well as the patient’s age and overall health34. While some benign tumors have excellent outcomes, malignant glioblastomas in particular have very poor prognoses
