What Is Brain Cancer? Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis
A brain tumour is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain and may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Brain cancer refers to malignant tumours that begin in the brain. A tumour that starts in another part of the body and spreads to the brain is called a metastatic brain tumour and is different from a cancer that starts in the brain.
Primary cancers of the brain and central nervous system (CNS) are rare and include many different tumour types and subtypes. The World Health Organization classifies CNS tumours using histological and molecular features, which can be important for establishing an accurate diagnosis and informing treatment.
Symptoms vary depending on where the tumour is located, its size and the functions controlled by the affected part of the brain. They may include headaches, seizures, vision or speech problems, nausea or vomiting, weakness, problems with balance or walking, or changes in mood, behaviour, concentration or memory. These symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than a brain tumour.
Diagnosis may involve a neurological assessment and brain imaging, such as MRI or CT. A biopsy or surgery may be used to obtain tumour tissue when appropriate. Examination of the tissue, including molecular testing for some tumour types, helps establish the specific diagnosis and can inform treatment planning.
Your Brain Cancer Consultation: What to Expect
Every brain cancer is different, so the length and focus of your consultation will depend on your diagnosis and individual circumstances.
Generally, your medical oncologist will discuss your medical history and diagnosis and review available imaging, pathology and molecular test results. Depending on the suspected or confirmed tumour type, further assessment may be needed before treatment is planned.
To request a consultation, contact us through WhatsApp. Our team will respond to your enquiry within one business day and help connect you with an appropriate specialist.
Our Approach to Brain Cancer Treatment
Treatment for brain cancer is highly individualised. The approach depends on the specific tumour type, location, grade and other tumour characteristics, as well as the patient’s overall health and individual circumstances.
Because brain cancers can affect important neurological functions and may require different forms of treatment, care may involve specialists from several disciplines. Our medical oncologists work with other clinicians involved in a patient’s care to support diagnostic review, treatment planning and ongoing management.
Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or targeted therapy. For glioblastoma, for example, treatment commonly involves surgery followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The treatment plan is tailored to the tumour and the individual patient.
