Nervous system tumor

Tumors of the nervous system

A nervous system tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue in the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and associated structures. These tumors can be benign or malignant and can affect both adults and children.

Classification

Nervous system tumors are classified based on their location, cell type, and malignancy. The two main categories are:

Primary tumors

Primary nervous system tumors originate in the brain or spinal cord. They are further classified by the type of cell from which they develop. Common types include:

• Gliomas: These are the most common type of primary brain tumors, originating from glial cells. Subtypes include astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas.
• Meningiomas: These tumors arise from the meninges, the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord.
• Schwannomas: These tumors develop from Schwann cells, which produce the myelin sheath covering peripheral nerves.

Secondary tumors

Secondary, or metastatic, nervous system tumors are those that have spread from other parts of the body to the brain or spinal cord. Common primary sites include the lung, breast, and skin (melanoma).

Symptoms

The symptoms of nervous system tumors vary depending on the tumor's location, size, and rate of growth. Common symptoms include:

• Headaches, often worse in the morning
• Seizures
• Nausea and vomiting
• Vision or hearing problems
• Cognitive or personality changes
• Weakness or numbness in limbs

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of nervous system tumors typically involves a combination of:

• Neurological examination
• Imaging studies such as MRI and CT scan
• Biopsy to determine the type of tumor

Glioblastoma MRI coronal with contrast

Treatment

Treatment options depend on the type, size, and location of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: Often the first step, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as possible.
• Radiation therapy: Used to destroy tumor cells or shrink tumors.
• Chemotherapy: Involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing.
• Targeted therapy: Uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells.

Prognosis

The prognosis for individuals with nervous system tumors varies widely based on factors such as the type and grade of the tumor, its location, and the patient's age and overall health. Some tumors can be effectively treated, while others may be more challenging to manage.

Related pages

• Brain tumor
• Spinal cord tumor
• Cancer
• Neurosurgery