What Is a Brain Tumor?
A brain tumor is a mass in the brain tissue made up of abnormal cells. Brain tumors can be cancerous or noncancerous, and they can originate in the brain or from cancer spreading to the brain from elsewhere in the body.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a brain tumor depend on the size and location of the tumor. They may include:
- Blurred vision or double vision
- Difficulty talking
- Dizziness
- Headaches that become more severe over time
- Hearing loss
- Loss of balance
- Loss of sensation to an extremity (arm or leg)
- Nausea or vomiting
- Seizures
Diagnosis
If your doctor suspects you may have a brain tumor, they will perform a neurological exam to check your senses, balance, coordination, and reflexes. Your doctor will then order imaging tests, such as a CT scan or MRI, which will allow them to see the potential tumor.
Treatment
There are a few different ways to treat brain tumors. Sometimes surgery is used to remove all or part of the tumor. Brain tumors can also be treated with certain medications, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy. The course of treatment varies depending on the diagnosis and individual circumstances, and we personalize treatment for each patient. We also offer radiosurgery, and we collaborate with JAX Labs to perform genomic sequencing to assist in treatment decisions. You and your doctor will discuss your case and decide on the best course of treatment.
A Team Approach
We treat all primary and metastatic brain and spine tumors in a multidisciplinary fashion. Our surgeons work together with our Neag Comprehensive Cancer Center specialists to personalize treatment plans and optimize individual outcomes.
