If you or a loved one has a brain tumor, we can provide you with quick answers and a personalized treatment plan. Banner Brain & Spine has an entire team of experts who specialize in brain health. We offer the latest treatments for brain tumors, such as computer-guided minimally invasive procedures and radiation therapy.
There are two main types of brain tumors: primary brain tumors and secondary brain tumors. Primary brain tumors start and stay in the surrounding tissue, whereas secondary brain tumors may start in a different part of the body and travel to the brain. Types of brain tumors and their symptoms can vary. Types of primary brain tumors include:
A choroid plexus tumor is a rare type of brain tumor that arises from the choroid plexus, a group of blood vessels and cells in the brain that produce cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Choroid plexus tumors can be either benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and they can occur in any part of the brain where there is a choroid plexus. Symptoms of choroid plexus tumors can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, but may include headache, vomiting, seizures and changes in behavior or cognitive function. Treatment options for choroid plexus tumors may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment will depend on the specific characteristics of the tumor and the stage of the cancer.
A colloid cyst is a rare type of brain tumor that arises from cells in the choroid plexus, a group of blood vessels and cells in the brain that produce cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). Colloid cysts are typically benign (noncancerous) and slow growing, but they can cause problems if they press on or block the flow of CSF through the brain. Symptoms of colloid cysts can vary depending on the size and location of the cyst, but may include headache, nausea, vomiting and changes in consciousness. Treatment options for colloid cysts may include medications to reduce swelling and pressure in the brain, surgery to remove the cyst or other treatments. The choice of treatment will depend on the specific characteristics of the cyst and the severity of the symptoms.
An ependymoma is a type of brain tumor that arises from ependymal cells, which are cells that line the ventricles (fluid cavities) in the brain and the central canal of the spinal cord. Ependymomas can occur at any age, but they are most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults. Ependymomas are typically slow growing, but they can grow and spread to other parts of the brain and spinal cord if not treated. Symptoms of ependymomas can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, but may include headache, vomiting, changes in vision and weakness or numbness in the limbs. Treatment options for ependymomas may include surgery to remove the tumor, radiation therapy and chemotherapy. The choice of treatment will depend on the specific characteristics of the tumor and the stage of the cancer.
Oligodendrogliomas are a type of brain tumor that arises from oligodendrocytes, which are cells that produce myelin, a fatty substance that surrounds and insulates nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. Oligodendrogliomas are typically slow-growing and have a better prognosis than many other types of brain tumors. However, they can still cause significant symptoms if they grow large enough to press on or damage nearby brain tissue. Symptoms of oligodendrogliomas can include headache, seizures, changes in speech or vision, weakness or numbness in the arms or legs and problems with balance or coordination. Treatment options for oligodendrogliomas may include surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and the choice of treatment will depend on the specific characteristics of the tumor.
Pituitary adenomas are tumors that arise from the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain that produces hormones that regulate various body functions. Pituitary adenomas are typically benign (noncancerous) and slow growing, but they can cause problems if they press on or damage nearby structures, such as the optic nerve or the hypothalamus. Symptoms of pituitary adenomas can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor, and may include vision problems, headache, irregular periods or fertility issues in women, impotence in men, fatigue, and changes in appetite or thirst. Treatment options for pituitary adenomas may include surgery, radiation therapy, and medications, and the choice of treatment will depend on the specific characteristics of the tumor. Our care team involving experts in many fields (e.g., neurosurgery, neuro-oncology, radiation oncology, neuropathology, neuroradiology, genetics, clinical trials, and others, participates in management and can quickly devise an individualized treatment plan.
While most causes for brain tumors are unknown, there are factors that may put a person at a higher risk for developing brain tumors. Risk factors may include:
General symptoms for brain tumors may include:
We understand that tumors of the brain may cause changes such as headaches, shifts in personality and loss of sensory or motor skills. We work with you to schedule tests to make sure you get the answers you need quickly. At Banner Brain & Spine, we use imaging, like MRIs, and other advanced technology to reach an accurate diagnosis. Once we have a clear picture, you and your doctor will create a brain tumor care and treatment plan.
Brain tumor treatments depend on the type, size and location of your tumor. Your neurosurgeon will sit with you and explain all of the options as you work together to develop a treatment plan, which could include biopsy, surgical removal or non-invasive brain tumor treatment such as chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.
If brain surgery is the right option, our minimally invasive approaches use the latest technology and computer-guided navigation. This technology allows for a shorter hospital stay, so you can get back to your normal activities as soon as possible.
After your procedures, your brain tumor treatment plan will include supportive and rehabilitative care.
If you need care for a neurological issue, we are here for you. Banner Brain & Spine’s large network of specialists in brain health, imaging and physical therapy can offer you the latest treatments.
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