A brain tumor is a mass or abnormal growth of cells in the brain. Brain tumors can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and they can arise from different types of cells in the brain. Bangalore is home to several world-class cancer hospitals, some of which are nationally and internationally recognized for their expertise in cancer care.
The cancer hospital in Bangalore offers comprehensive cancer care services ranging from diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation to palliative care. They employ highly trained and experienced medical professionals, including oncologists, radiation therapists, surgeons, and other specialists, who work together to provide personalized and effective cancer treatment.
This article will discuss the types of brain tumors, their symptoms, and the treatment options available at the best cancer hospital in Bangalore.
Table of Contents
Types of Brain Tumors
Gliomas
Gliomas are a common type of brain tumor, accounting for about 33% of all brain tumors. They originate in the brain’s supportive tissue called glial cells. Gliomas can be further classified into subtypes: astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, and ependymoma. Symptoms of gliomas may include headaches, seizures, memory loss, and personality changes.
Meningiomas
Meningiomas account for about 27% of all brain tumors. They originate in the meninges, the protective layers surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Meningiomas are typically benign, slow-growing tumors but can cause symptoms if they press on the brain or nerves. Symptoms of meningiomas may include headaches, vision problems, seizures, and weakness.
Pituitary Tumors
Pituitary tumors account for about 15% of all brain tumors. They originate in the pituitary gland, located at the brain’s base. Pituitary tumors can cause hormone imbalances, leading to symptoms such as headaches, vision problems, fatigue, and menstrual irregularities.
Schwannomas
Schwannomas account for about 8% of all brain tumors. They originate in the cells that produce the myelin sheath that surrounds nerves. Schwannomas are typically benign, slow-growing tumors but can cause symptoms if they press on the nerves. Symptoms of schwannomas may include hearing loss, tinnitus, and balance problems.
Craniopharyngiomas
Craniopharyngiomas account for about 3% of all brain tumors. They originate in the embryonic tissue that forms the pituitary gland and hypothalamus. It can cause hormone imbalances, leading to headaches, vision problems, and weight gain.
Medulloblastomas
Medulloblastomas account for about 1% of all brain tumors. They originate in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls movement and balance. They are most commonly found in children and can cause headaches, vomiting, and balance problems.
Pineal gland tumors
Pineal gland tumors account for less than 1% of all brain tumors. They originate in the pineal gland, a small gland in the brain’s center. Pineal gland tumors can cause hormone imbalances, leading to symptoms such as headaches, vision problems, and sleep disturbances.
Primary Central Nervous System Lymphoma
It is a rare type of brain tumor originating in the lymphocytes, a variety of white blood cells. It accounts for less than 1% of all brain tumors. Primary central nervous system lymphoma can cause symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and weakness.
Treatment Options Available at Bangalore
The treatment options for brain tumors depend on several factors, such as the type and stage of the tumor, the patient’s age and overall health, and the tumor’s location. The most common treatment options for brain tumors are surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.
In addition to these standard treatments, clinical trials may be available at a cancer hospital in Bangalore, which offers patients access to new and experimental therapies that may be effective in treating brain tumors. The medical team at the hospital will work closely with each patient to determine the best treatment plan based on their specific diagnosis and individual needs.