Brain tumors form when cells in the brain grow in ways they shouldn’t. Tumors that begin in the brain are primary brain tumors.
Sometimes, cancer begins in another part of the body and spreads (metastasizes) to the brain. This is a metastatic, or secondary, brain tumor.
Brain tumors and spinal cord tumors may form in different types of cells and tissues. These include:
- Glial cells: Supporting cells of the brain (astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and ependymal cells)
- Meninges: Tissue that lines and protects both the brain and spinal cord
- Neurons: Nerve cells that help with all functions of the brain and spine
- Neuroectodermal cells: Young cells that form the nervous system
Brain cancer symptoms may develop suddenly or may get worse over type. Signs of brain cancer include:
- Blurry vision
- Changes in behavior
- Drowsiness
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Trouble with balance
Experts assign grades to brain tumors based on how the tumor is growing or spreading. Tumors with higher grades tend to grow and spread more quickly. Doctors consider a tumor's type and grade when deciding how to treat you.
Astrocytomas
Tumors that begin in certain glial cells known as astrocytes. These tumors may spread throughout the brain.Craniopharyngiomas
A tumor that grows below the brain but above the pituitary gland, which controls growth, blood pressure and metabolism. As they grow, these tumors may press on this gland and other nerves, causing problems with hormones and vision.Ependymomas
Tumors that begin in ependymal cells and may grow into the spinal cord. They typically don't spread outside the brain or spinal cord.Gangliomas
Tumors that form with both glial cells and neurons. These uncommon tumors usually grow slowly.Medulloblastomas
Fast-growing brain tumors that develop in neuroectodermal cells in the cerebellum. They are more common in children.Meningiomas
These are the most common brain tumors, which form in the meninges. Experts assign a grade to these tumors after examining cells under a microscope.Schwannomas
Tumors that form in cells insulating cranial and other nerves (Schwann cells). These tumors are usually not cancer (benign) but can cause problems with senses and other functions.Our cancer experts provide prompt diagnosis for all brain tumor types. We begin with a physical examination. We also ask you about your medical history and about any symptoms you’re experiencing.
Your doctor will also test your cognitive function, including your:
- Balance
- Coordination
- Reflexes
- Strength
Depending on your test results, we may refer you to one of our neurosciences experts. We may also recommend:
- Biopsy
- Stereotactic biopsy
- Surgical biopsy
- Imaging tests
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
Experts may send biopsy samples to a laboratory for genetic testing. These tests show any changes (mutations) in the genes that can help doctors make decisions about how to treat the cancer.
Our doctors use a range of cancer treatments to treat neurologic cancer. We evaluate test results and collaborate with each other to design a treatment plan that's right for your specific needs. We treat brain tumors with:
Nonsurgical treatments
- Alternating electric field therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Corticosteroids
- Hormone therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Targeted therapy
Surgical treatments
- Craniotomy
- Shunt placement
- Ventricular access catheter
Our experts and partners also research new ways to treat cancer. Please read about our work at 果冻视频 Research Center.