केएमसी कैंसर संस्थान

Brain cancer refers to the growth of abnormal cells within the brain or the surrounding tissues. These tumors can either be primary (originating in the brain) or secondary (metastatic tumors that spread from other parts of the body to the brain). Primary brain tumors are less common than secondary brain tumors, but they can be highly complex depending on their location and type.

Types of Brain Cancer:

1. Gliomas – Tumors that originate from glial cells (the supporting cells of the brain). Types include:
   • Glioblastoma: One of the most aggressive and common forms of brain cancer.
   • Astrocytoma, Oligodendroglioma, Ependymoma: Other forms of gliomas that have varying levels of aggressiveness.
2. Meningiomas – Tumors that develop in the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
3. Pituitary Tumors – Tumors that form in the pituitary gland at the base of the brain. Not all are cancerous, but they can disrupt hormonal balance.
4. Medulloblastomas – A type of tumor that occurs primarily in children, usually in the cerebellum.
5. Metastatic Brain Tumors – Tumors that spread to the brain from other parts of the body (e.g., from lung, breast, or skin cancers).

Symptoms of Brain Cancer:

Symptoms can vary depending on the tumor’s location, size, and rate of growth. Common signs of brain cancer include:

• Persistent headaches (that may worsen over time)
• Seizures (new onset, or a change in pattern of existing seizures)
• Nausea or vomiting (especially in the morning)
• Cognitive changes (memory problems, confusion, difficulty concentrating)
• Personality changes or mood swings
• Weakness or numbness in limbs or one side of the body
• Vision problems, such as blurred vision or double vision
• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
• Balance or coordination problems

Diagnosis of Brain Cancer:

To diagnose brain cancer, a healthcare provider will perform various tests and imaging studies:

1. Neurological Exam: A detailed examination of reflexes, coordination, strength, and sensory functions. Abnormalities in these areas can suggest brain problems.
2. Imaging Tests:
   • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): The primary imaging technique used to identify brain tumors, as it offers detailed images of brain structures.
   • CT Scan (Computed Tomography): A less detailed test but often used in emergency situations or if MRI is unavailable.
   • PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography): Sometimes used to assess the activity of a tumor and its likelihood of being cancerous.
3. Biopsy: A tissue sample is taken from the tumor to confirm if it’s cancerous and to determine its exact type. This can be done surgically or via a needle biopsy, depending on the tumor’s location.
4. Genetic Testing: If cancer is confirmed, genetic or molecular testing of the tumor may be performed to determine specific mutations or molecular features, which can help guide treatment options.

Treatment Options for Brain Cancer:

The treatment approach for brain cancer depends on the type, size, location of the tumor, and whether it has spread. Common treatment options include:

1. Surgery: If the tumor is accessible, surgery is often the first step to remove as much of the tumor as possible. However, some tumors may be located in areas that are difficult to access without damaging vital brain tissue.
2. Radiation Therapy: This treatment uses high-energy rays (similar to X-rays) to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It may be used after surgery if the tumor couldn’t be fully removed or for tumors that are inoperable.
   • Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): A highly focused form of radiation that targets the tumor precisely, reducing damage to surrounding healthy tissue. It’s often used for smaller tumors or for patients who aren’t candidates for surgery.
3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop their growth. These drugs may be administered orally or through an IV. Chemotherapy is often used when the tumor is too widespread to be treated by surgery or radiation alone.
4. Targeted Therapy: This involves drugs that specifically target cancer cells based on certain genetic or molecular features. For example, temozolomide is a drug that may be used for glioblastomas, a common type of brain cancer.
5. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the body’s immune system recognize and attack cancer cells. This is a relatively newer approach for brain cancer, and ongoing research is exploring its effectiveness, especially in combination with other treatments.
6. Steroids: Steroids, such as dexamethasone, may be used to reduce brain swelling around the tumor, which can help alleviate symptoms like headaches or nausea.
7. Palliative Care: For advanced brain cancer, where treatment may no longer be effective, palliative care focuses on alleviating symptoms and improving the quality of life.

Prognosis:

The prognosis for brain cancer depends on various factors, including:

• The type and grade of the tumor
• The tumor’s location
• Whether the tumor can be surgically removed
• The patient’s age and overall health

Low-grade tumors (slow-growing) tend to have a better prognosis and can sometimes be treated successfully with surgery or radiation. High-grade tumors (aggressive, fast-growing) often have a poorer prognosis and may require more intensive treatment.

For example:

• Glioblastomas (a type of glioma) are highly aggressive and difficult to treat, with a median survival of about 12-18 months after diagnosis.
• Tumors like meningiomas are often benign and, if operable, may have a much better prognosis.

Prevention and Risk Factors:

While there’s no surefire way to prevent brain cancer, some factors are linked to a higher risk:

• Family history: A family history of brain cancer may increase your risk, suggesting a genetic predisposition.
• Age and gender: Brain cancer is more common in older adults and is more frequent in men.
• Radiation exposure: People who have been exposed to high levels of radiation, particularly during childhood (e.g., radiation therapy for other cancers), have a higher risk of developing brain cancer.

Currently, there are no known lifestyle changes or specific preventive measures for brain cancer, other than minimizing exposure to radiation.

Living with Brain Cancer:

Living with brain cancer can be challenging due to the physical, emotional, and cognitive impacts of the disease and its treatment. Support groups, rehabilitation, and counseling services can help manage these challenges. In some cases, people may need help with daily activities, cognitive therapy, and seizure management.