Brain Cancer

Brain cancer refers to the abnormal growth of cells within the brain or its surrounding structures. Tumors can be primary (originating in the brain) or secondary/metastatic (spread from other parts of the body). Primary brain tumors include both benign and malignant types, with gliomas being the most common malignant form. Gliomas include astrocytomas, glioblastomas (GBM), oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas. Other types include meningiomas, medulloblastomas, and pituitary tumors.

Symptoms vary by tumor size and location but may include headaches, seizures, memory problems, vision changes, weakness, and speech difficulties.

Risk factors are not always clear but may include exposure to radiation, family history, and certain genetic syndromes (e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome, neurofibromatosis).

Common Therapies for Brain Cancer

Treatment depends on tumor type, grade, size, and location, as well as patient age and overall health:

1. Surgery

   • Often the first step, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as safely possible

   • Sometimes used to relieve pressure or confirm diagnosis via biopsy

   • Complete resection is not always possible due to tumor location

     
     

2. Radiation Therapy

   • Used after surgery or when surgery is not possible

   • Types include external beam radiation and stereotactic radiosurgery (e.g., Gamma Knife)

   • Helps slow or stop tumor growth

   
   

3. Chemotherapy

   • Often used with radiation or for recurrent tumors

   • Temozolomide is the most commonly used drug, especially for glioblastoma

   • Other drugs include Carmustine (BCNU), Lomustine, and PCV (procarbazine, lomustine, vincristine)

   
   

4. Targeted Therapy

   • Limited but growing use in certain tumors with identifiable mutations

   • Bevacizumab (anti-VEGF) may be used in recurrent glioblastoma to reduce swelling and delay progression

   
   

5. Immunotherapy

   • Still under investigation for brain tumors

   • Checkpoint inhibitors like Nivolumab are being studied, especially for high-grade or recurrent tumors

   
   

6. Tumor Treating Fields (TTF)

   • A newer, non-invasive therapy for glioblastoma using electrical fields to disrupt cancer cell division

   • Used in combination with temozolomide in select patients

   
   

7. Supportive Care and Rehabilitation

   • Includes anti-seizure medications, corticosteroids to reduce swelling, physical therapy, speech therapy, and psychological support

   
   

Brain cancer treatment is complex and typically involves a multidisciplinary team. Prognosis varies widely based on tumor type and grade, with glioblastoma being among the most aggressive forms.