Overgrowth of cells in your brain forms masses called tumors or brain cancer. Cancerous or malignant brain tumors can multiply and disrupt the way your body works. In some instances, it can be life-threatening.
Primary brain cancer arises from supporting cells in the brain where the cells start to divide uncontrollably. Secondary brain cancer occurs when cancer cells from other parts of the body spread to the brain. It is also known as brain metastasis.
The symptoms of a brain tumor depend very much on the type of brain tumor, growth rate, and its anatomical location in the brain.
They may also include the following:
Imaging Tests
Doctors will refer patients suspected of having a brain tumoror cancer to a neurosurgeon for a detailed neurological assessment. It involves imaging studies of the brain, such as an MRI and CT scan. Sometimes, a lumbar puncture procedure is used to collect a small sample of the fluid surrounding your brain and spinal cord to check for cancer cells. Lastly, a brain biopsy will also be done to remove a small portion of the tumor for diagnostic testing to determine if it is malignant.
