HEALTH - BRAIN TUMOR
A tumor is any mass caused by abnormal or uncontrolled growth of cells. Tumors in the brain are categorized according to several factors, including where they're located, the type of cells involved, and how quickly they're growing.
Low-grade vs. high-grade: Usually, low-grade tumors are slow-growing, while high-grade tumors are fast-growing and aggressive. High-grade tumors can invade nearby tissue or spread elsewhere in the body, and are more likely to recur after treatment. They are generally associated with a worse outlook.
Localized vs. invasive: A localized tumor is confined to one area and is generally easier to remove, as long as it's in an accessible part of the brain. An invasive tumor has spread to surrounding areas and is more difficult or impossible to remove completely.
Primary vs. secondary: Primary brain tumors originate in the brain. Secondary brain tumors are made up of cells that have spread (metastasized) to the brain from somewhere else in the body. In children, most brain tumors are primary.
Signs and Symptoms
A brain tumor can cause symptoms by directly pressing on the surrounding brain, or by causing a buildup of spinal fluid and pressure throughout the brain . A range of symptoms can develop as a result.
Signs or symptoms vary depending on a child's age and the location of the tumor, but may include: vomiting, seizures, weakness of the face, trunk, arms, or legs , slurred speech, difficulty standing or walking , poor coordination, headache in babies, a rapidly enlarging head
Because symptoms might develop gradually and can be like those of other common childhood conditions, brain tumors can be difficult to diagnose. So it's always wise to discuss any symptoms that concern you with your child's doctor.
Treatment
Treatment for a brain tumor requires a team of medical specialists. Most pediatric brain tumor patients require some combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Advancements in all three treatment areas in the last few decades have contributed to better outcomes. The care of a child with a brain tumor is very complicated and requires close coordination between members of the medical team, which typically will include:
a pediatric neuro-oncologist (a doctor who specializes in treating cancers of the brain or spine)
a pediatric neurologist (a doctor who specializes in disorders of the nervous system)
a pediatric neurosurgeon (a surgeon who operates on the brain or spine)
a pediatric radiation therapist (a specialist who administers radiation therapy)
pediatric rehabilitation medicine specialists, including speech, physical, and occupational therapists
pediatric psychologists and social workers
These experts will choose a child's therapy very carefully. Finding a treatment that will be effective and cure the child but not cause unacceptable side effects is probably one of the most difficult aspects of treating brain tumors.
more information
www.braintumor.org
www.braintumourindia.com
www.abta.org