Brain Tumor

Reviewed by our Healthcare Team Member

Nitin Mariwalla, MD

Nitin R. Mariwalla, MD, MPH, MS is the Founder of New York Brain, Spine & Joint. He originally opened his private practice in the Long Island, New York region. He has a broad clinical interest in all aspects of the surgical and nonsurgical treatment of diseases involving the brain, spine, and peripheral nerves.

Brain Tumor: Understanding, Diagnosing, and Treating Abnormal Growths in the Brain

A brain tumor is an abnormal mass of cells that grows in or around the brain. Tumors may be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), originating within the brain (primary) or spreading from elsewhere in the body (metastatic). Early detection and specialized care are critical in managing brain tumors and preserving neurological function.

Understanding Brain Tumors

The brain is a highly complex organ, and even benign tumors can disrupt normal function by exerting pressure on surrounding brain tissue. Primary brain tumors start in the brain’s cells, such as gliomas arising from glial cells or meningiomas developing in the membranes covering the brain. Metastatic tumors reach the brain through the bloodstream from other cancers in the body.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Genetics and Family History
Certain inherited syndromes, such as Neurofibromatosis or Von Hippel-Lindau disease, can increase susceptibility.
Radiation Exposure
High-dose radiation to the head for other medical conditions may heighten the risk of later tumor development.
Age
Brain tumors can occur at any age but are more frequent in older adults. Specific types, like medulloblastomas, are more common in children.
Immune System Issues
Individuals with weakened immune systems may have a higher risk of certain brain tumors.

Potential Symptoms

Symptoms vary depending on the tumor’s type, size, and location:

Headaches
Often worse in the morning or when coughing/straining, sometimes accompanied by nausea or vomiting.
Neurological Deficits
Weakness, numbness, or tingling in one side of the body.
Difficulty with balance, coordination, or speech.
Seizures
New-onset seizures can be a presenting sign of a brain tumor.
Cognitive and Behavioral Changes
Memory problems, confusion, or personality shifts if certain brain regions are affected.
Vision or Hearing Impairment
Tumors near the optic or acoustic nerves may cause visual changes or hearing loss.

Diagnosis

Imaging Tests
MRI: The gold standard for detailed images of brain lesions and surrounding structures.
CT Scan: Useful for quickly identifying large masses or associated complications such as hemorrhage.
Neurological Exam
Evaluation of reflexes, sensory perception, motor function, and coordination.
Biopsy or Surgical Resection
A sample of the tumor (or complete removal) can confirm the tumor’s type and guide further treatment.
Advanced Imaging Techniques
PET Scans or fMRI (functional MRI) may further characterize tumor metabolism and impact on brain function.

Treatment Options

Observation
Small, slow-growing tumors may be monitored with regular imaging if symptoms are minimal.
Surgery
Partial or total resection can alleviate pressure on the brain and provide tissue for diagnosis.
Radiation Therapy
External beam radiation or specialized techniques like Gamma Knife® radiosurgery target residual tumor cells.
Chemotherapy
Drugs that fight cancer cells, either administered orally or intravenously. Some tumor types respond well to specific chemotherapy regimens.
Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy
Novel treatments that harness the immune system or attack specific genetic mutations in tumor cells.
Supportive Care
Steroids to reduce swelling, anti-seizure medications, and rehabilitation services to optimize neurological function.

Recovery and Rehabilitation

Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation: Involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech therapy to address motor, cognitive, or language deficits.
Follow-Up Care: Regular imaging and check-ups to monitor for tumor recurrence or side effects of treatment.
Lifestyle Adjustments: Maintaining a balanced diet, engaging in low-impact exercise, and reducing stress support overall well-being.

Our Multi-Disciplinary Approach in NYC

At our multi-location, multi-disciplinary practice in the New York City metro area, we bring together neurosurgeons, oncologists, radiation specialists, and rehabilitation experts. Our goal is to create a treatment plan that prioritizes both survival and quality of life, leveraging advanced diagnostic tools and cutting-edge therapies.

Additional Resources

Conclusion

A brain tumor diagnosis can be life-altering, but modern therapies offer hope for effective management and improved quality of life. By focusing on accurate diagnosis, personalized treatments, and comprehensive rehabilitation, our dedicated team strives to support patients at every step of their journey.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for concerns about a potential brain tumor or any other health condition.