The brain is one of the most important organs in our body. A brain tumor refers to the abnormal growth of cells inside or around the brain. When cells begin to grow abnormally within or around the brain, it is called a brain tumor. These cells grow uncontrollably and interfere with the normal functioning of the brain. The tumor may be small or large, and it may be cancerous (Malignant) or non-cancerous (Benign).

A brain tumor affects the normal functioning of the brain and can cause various physical and mental problems. Therefore, early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are very important.

Types of Brain Tumors

Primary Brain Tumor: Tumors that develop directly in the brain are called primary brain tumors. Generally, these tumors remain confined to the brain and rarely spread outside it. Primary tumors are seen in most cases among adults. They are named according to the types of brain cells involved, such as astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma, or mixed oligoastrocytoma.

Secondary or Metastatic Brain Tumor: When cancer from another organ of the body spreads to the brain, it is called a secondary brain tumor. Generally, these tumors are more common than primary tumors and occur more frequently in people with a history of cancer. Brain metastases often originate from cancers of the lungs, breasts, kidneys, colon, or melanoma.

What Causes Brain Tumors?

The exact cause of a brain tumor often cannot be determined or remains unknown. However, research has identified certain risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing a brain tumor. When abnormal changes or mutations occur in brain cells, the cells begin to grow uncontrollably, resulting in the formation of a brain tumor.

Genetic or Family History: Although most brain tumors are not hereditary, having a close family member, such as a parent, sibling, or child, with a history of brain tumors may slightly increase the risk, particularly in cases of gliomas. Genetic syndromes such as Neurofibromatosis Types 1 and 2 and Li-Fraumeni syndrome also contribute to an increased risk of brain tumors.

Excessive Radiation Exposure: Excessive radiation exposure to the head or receiving radiotherapy may increase the risk of developing a brain tumor. Exposure to ionizing radiation, especially during childhood, is a recognized risk factor.

Increasing Age: The risk of certain brain tumors increases with age. However, brain tumors can also occur in children.

Weak Immune System: People with weakened immune systems or several pre-existing medical conditions have a higher risk of developing brain tumors.

Spread from Other Cancers in the Body: Cancer cells from cancers of the lungs, breasts, kidneys, or skin may spread to the brain, resulting in what is known as a secondary brain tumor.

Exposure to Chemical Substances: Long-term exposure to certain harmful chemicals increases the risk of developing brain tumors. For example:

• Certain industrial chemicals
• Pesticides
• Exposure to toxic metals

Symptoms of Brain Tumors

Brain tumor symptoms develop depending on the size and location of the tumor and its effects on the surrounding brain tissue. However, symptoms can vary considerably from person to person.

Common Symptoms

• Persistent headaches, especially in the morning
• More severe headaches in the morning
• Nausea or vomiting without any apparent reason
• Blurred vision
• Seizures
• Weakness on one side of the body
• Difficulty speaking
• Memory loss
• Loss of balance while walking
• Changes in behavior or personality
• Excessive drowsiness

Symptoms of brain tumors in children may be slightly different, although most are similar. For example:

• Abnormal head size
• Repeated vomiting
• Reluctance to eat
• Seizures may occur
• Difficulty concentrating on studies

Brain tumors can cause behavioral and psychological problems. In some cases, these symptoms become extremely serious, making it necessary to speak with your family or healthcare provider.

Diagnosis of Brain Tumors

Diagnosing a brain tumor is a complex process that begins with a complete physical examination and an evaluation of the patient's medical history. Specialized neurological examinations are performed to determine whether the cranial nerves originating from the brain are intact.

Patient History and Physical Examination

• Whether the patient has headaches
• Whether the patient has seizures
• Blurred vision
• Whether the patient is becoming physically weak
• Whether the patient has difficulty speaking
• Afterward, a neurological examination is performed.

Brain MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a primary tool for identifying tumors because it provides detailed cross-sectional images of the brain. MRI helps determine the size and location of a tumor.

3T Intraoperative MRI (iMRI) is an advanced technology that assists neurosurgeons during brain tumor surgery. Using this advanced technology helps doctors perform neurosurgery safely and accurately.

Brain CT Scan

These scans provide better cross-sectional images of the head than X-rays. A special contrast agent may be used during a CT scan to help doctors obtain clearer images of blood vessels. This contrast agent is injected beforehand to highlight abnormal tissue.

Biopsy

During a biopsy, a small sample of cells or tissue is taken from the tumor and examined under a microscope. A neuropathologist performs this examination.

It helps identify whether the tumor cells are malignant and helps determine whether cancer is present in the brain or elsewhere in the body.

Neurological Examination

The functioning of the nervous system is examined, including:

• Vision
• Strength of the arms and legs
• Balance
• Memory
• Ability to speak

Angiography

In this examination, a special contrast agent is administered through an injection, usually in the groin area. The contrast agent travels through the arteries of the brain and helps the doctor identify the source of blood supply to the tumor.

When Is an Urgent Medical Examination Necessary?

• If severe headaches persist for a long time
• If repeated vomiting occurs
• If seizures develop
• If vision suddenly decreases
• If the body becomes numb
• If balance is lost while walking

Through proper diagnosis, a doctor can begin treatment promptly.

Treatments for Brain Tumors

Brain tumor treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor and the patient's physical condition. Modern medical treatment uses various methods to control or remove brain tumors. However, the most common treatment for brain tumors is surgery.

1. Surgery (Brain Tumor Surgery)

Surgery is the most common and effective treatment for brain tumors. Its purpose is to remove the tumor completely or partially while protecting healthy brain tissue as much as possible.

Currently, many advanced technologies are used in modern neurosurgery, making surgical procedures much safer and more effective than before.

Main Objectives of Surgery:

• Remove the tumor
• Reduce pressure on the brain
• Relieve headaches, seizures, and other symptoms
• Collect tissue samples to determine the type of tumor

The type of surgery is determined according to the location and size of the tumor.

2. Radiation Therapy (Radiotherapy)

This is a non-surgical radiation therapy that uses precisely focused radiation beams to deliver high levels of energy to a specific area, such as a tumor, with minimal impact on surrounding healthy tissue.

It is a highly precise technique that uses 3D imaging to target lesions in the brain, spine, or other parts of the body.

Radiation therapy plays an effective role when the entire tumor cannot be removed or when a portion remains after surgery. Modern radiation technologies target tumors precisely and help reduce damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

3. Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves medications that help destroy cancer cells or stop their growth. These medications may be taken orally or administered through a vein. Side effects include fatigue, nausea, and a risk of infection.

Uses of Chemotherapy:

• For cancerous brain tumors
• In combination with radiation therapy
• After surgery
• When the tumor returns

In some cases, chemotherapy helps stop tumor growth and improve the patient's quality of life.

4. Targeted Therapy

This is a modern treatment method that targets specific cancer cells. It causes comparatively less damage to normal cells and produces effective results for particular types of brain tumors.

5. Immunotherapy

This treatment strengthens the body's immune system to help fight cancer. It is being used in some advanced medical centers for selected cases.

6. Symptom Management Through Medication

Brain tumors can sometimes cause headaches, seizures, or swelling in the brain. Different medications are used to control these conditions, allowing treatment to be provided while managing symptoms.

Examples of Medications Used:

• Steroids: To reduce swelling in the brain
• Anti-Seizure Medications: To control seizures
• Pain Medications: To relieve pain

7. Rehabilitation

After surgery or treatment, some patients require rehabilitation, such as:

• Physiotherapy
• Speech Therapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Psychological Support and Counseling

These therapies help patients return to their normal lives. Although not all brain tumors can be prevented, maintaining a healthy lifestyle helps support overall well-being.

Conclusion

A brain tumor is a serious condition, but modern treatment makes successful treatment possible in many cases. When the disease is identified at an early stage, the likelihood of successful treatment increases considerably.

Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and other advanced treatments play important roles in improving patients' quality of life.

Therefore, persistent headaches, seizures, or neurological problems should not be ignored. A specialist doctor should be consulted promptly.

Consult a Specialist

Dr. Aminur Rahman

Neurosurgeon | Brain and Spine Trauma Specialist

Dhaka Medical College Hospital

MBBS (MMC), BCS (Health), MS (Neurosurgery – DMCH)

Chambers & Appointments

1. Popular Diagnostic Centre Ltd. – Tangail Branch

Address: Tangail, Sabalia, Mymensingh Road.

Phone: 09666-787824

Visiting Hours: Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

2. Jahanara Clinic Pvt. Ltd.

Address: Road 2, Sector 1, Uttara, Dhaka.

Phone: 01732838355

Email: aminurmmc40@gmail.com

Visiting Hours: Sunday and Wednesday, 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM