“Facing the Unknown: Insights into Life with a Brain Tumor”

Understanding Brain Tumours

A brain tumour is a mass or collection of abnormal cells in the brain. The skull, which encloses the brain, is very rigid. Any growth inside such a restricted space may cause problems. Early diagnosis can be an essential factor in the outcome of tumours in the brain. Brain tumours are the second leading cause of cancer death in children under 15 and the second fastest-growing cause of cancer death among those over 65. Brain tumours can cause brain damage, and they can be life-threatening. Brain tumours can be cancerous (malignant) or noncancerous (benign). When benign or malignant tumours grow, they can increase the pressure inside the skull.

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Types of Brain Tumours: Primary and Secondary

Primary Brain Tumours

Primary brain tumours originate in the brain. Many primary brain tumours are benign. Examples of tumours that most often develop in the brain include meningioma and glioma. Very rarely, these tumours can break out and affect the spinal cord or other parts of the brain.

Secondary Brain Tumours

Metastatic brain tumours, also called secondary brain tumours, are malignant tumours that originate as cancer elsewhere in the human body and then metastasize (spread) to the brain. These are about three times more common than primary brain tumours. They can proliferate, crowding or invading nearby brain tissue.

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Causes and Risk Factors of Brain Tumours

The genesis of most brain tumours is unknown, but several risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing a brain tumour:

• Age: The risk increases with age, particularly among older adults aged 85 to 89, although some types are more common in children.
• Radiation: Exposure to radiation, such as radiotherapy or CT scans, accounts for a minimal number of cases.
• Family History and Genetic Conditions: Rarely, brain tumours may be genetically inherited or linked to genetic disorders like tuberous sclerosis and neurofibromatosis.
• Lifestyle Factors: Obesity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and exposure to certain harmful chemicals may increase risk.
• Cancer History: Individuals with a history of cancer may have a higher risk of developing brain tumours.

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Common Symptoms of Brain Tumours

Symptoms vary based on the tumour’s size, location, and growth rate. Common signs include:

• New or changing patterns of headaches
• Headaches that gradually worsen
• Unexplained nausea or vomiting
• Speech difficulties
• Persistent fatigue
• Confusion in everyday matters
• Difficulty with balance
• Personality or behaviour changes
• Gradual loss of sensation or movement in the limbs
• Seizures in those without a history of seizures
• Vision problems such as blurred or double vision

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Treatment Options for Brain Tumours

1. Brain Surgery (Craniotomy)

When possible, neurosurgeons extract the tumour, sometimes performing surgery while the patient is awake to minimize damage to functional areas.

2. Radiation Therapy

X-rays destroy brain tumour cells or shrink the tumour.

3. Radiosurgery

This treatment uses focused radiation beams (proton or gamma rays) to destroy the tumour without requiring an incision.

4. Brachytherapy

Radioactive seeds, capsules, or implants are surgically placed near or within the tumour.

5. Chemotherapy

This involves anti-cancer drugs to destroy tumour cells. Chemotherapy may be administered as a pill or injection.

6. Targeted Therapy

Drugs target specific features in cancer cells, sparing healthy cells. This option may be recommended for those who cannot tolerate chemotherapy.

7. Immunotherapy

This therapy uses the immune system to fight cancer by stimulating it to work more effectively.

8. Watchful Waiting/Active Surveillance

For small, asymptomatic tumours, close monitoring is recommended.

9. Supportive Treatments

• Shunts: To relieve pressure caused by excess cerebrospinal fluid.
• Drugs: Medications like mannitol and corticosteroids reduce swelling.
• Palliative Care: Provides symptom relief, comfort, and support.

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Advances in Brain Tumour Research

Research into brain tumours is advancing rapidly. Scientists are exploring genetic predisposition and environmental factors such as exposure to ionizing radiation. Investigating infections and immune factors offers promising avenues for future treatment breakthroughs.

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Conclusion

Brain tumours are among the most invasive cancers. While survival rates are improving, especially in children, brain tumours remain challenging to treat. Early diagnosis and advanced medical care are crucial. Consulting healthcare professionals is essential for accurate diagnosis, personalized treatment, and up-to-date medical advice.