Primary brain tumor refers to the conditions which originates in brain tissue. Most other cancers have a tendency to metastasize and spread to the brain, and they are referred to as metastatic brain tumors. Roughly 15,000 Americans develop primary brain cancer every year. The cause of these tumors is unknown.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
Symptoms associated with this condition are:
• Headache
• Nausea/vomiting
• Seizures
• Altered mental status
• Altered speech
• Visual problems
• Paralysis
DIAGNOSTIC
A CT scan or MRI of the brain can establish the diagnosis with a great degree of accuracy. Once the diagnosis is established, treatment should be initiated promptly. The possibility of a metastatic cancer to the brain must be considered and, depending on certain circumstances, other studies may be indicated. Once the diagnosis of a primary brain tumor is established, surgery is the next step. The tumor must be removed and be sent to the pathologist.
TREATMENT
Surgery for removal of the tumor is the most important step for treating brain tumors. Additional radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be indicated in some patients, especially in situations where complete removal of the tumor is not feasible. Most patients are also treated with steroids to reduce swelling of the brain and anti seizure medicines to prevent seizures.
