Brain tumors
Brain tumors
Brain tumors (pronunciation: /breɪn 'tjuːmər/) are abnormal growths of cells in the brain that can be benign or malignant. They are classified by the type of cell they originate from and their location in the brain.
Etymology
The term "brain tumor" is derived from the Latin words 'cerebrum' meaning brain, and 'tumor' meaning swelling. However, in modern medical terminology, a tumor is not necessarily a swelling, but an abnormal growth of cells.
Types of Brain Tumors
There are several types of brain tumors, including:
- Gliomas: These are the most common type of brain tumor. They originate from glial cells, which support and protect the brain's neurons.
- Meningiomas: These tumors grow from the meninges, the layers of tissue that cover the brain and spinal cord.
- Pituitary Tumors: These tumors occur in the pituitary gland, which is responsible for hormone production.
- Medulloblastomas: These are malignant tumors most commonly found in children. They originate in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination.
Symptoms
Symptoms of brain tumors can vary greatly depending on the tumor's size, type, and location. Common symptoms include headaches, seizures, changes in personality or behavior, difficulty with balance or coordination, and changes in hearing, vision, or speech.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of a brain tumor typically involves a neurological examination, imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan, and often a biopsy to determine the type and grade of the tumor.
Treatment
Treatment options for brain tumors include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and targeted drug therapy. The choice of treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Brain tumors
- Wikipedia's article - Brain tumors
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