A benign brain tumor is a mass of tissue that grows and multiplies abnormally. Benign brain tumors are noncancerous, which means they will not spread to other regions of the body and will not infect surrounding tissue. There are not one but different types of Benign Brain Tumors and these non-cancerous brain tumors often remain in one area and do not spread. If the entire tumor is removed safely during surgery, it is unlikely to return.
But if the tumor is not entirely removed, it would have the possibility to recur. In this case, it will be constantly monitored by scans and maybe treated with radiotherapy. 95% of benign brain tumors are discovered with CT or MRI brain scans. The most frequent benign brain tumors are meningioma and schwannoma.
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Types of Benign Brain Tumors that you must Know
Types and Grades of Benign Brain Tumours
Benign brain tumours can vary widely in type and location, depending on the specific cells they affect. Some common types include:
Meningiomas:
Developing from the arachnoid layer of the meninges, meningiomas are slow-growing tumours that can arise in various locations within the skull. Often asymptomatic initially, symptoms may worsen gradually as the tumour compresses surrounding brain tissue. They are commonly detected incidentally during imaging scans. Treatment usually involves surgical removal, although observation may be recommended for smaller, asymptomatic tumours. (Source: AANS)
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Acoustic Neuromas:
Also referred to as vestibular schwannomas, these tumours affect the acoustic nerve and typically arise near the inner ear. Symptoms may include hearing loss, tinnitus, balance issues, and facial numbness or weakness on one side. Treatment options range from observation for small, asymptomatic tumours to surgical removal or radiation therapy for larger or symptomatic ones. Schwannomas are usually benign (non-cancerous), but they can sometimes become cancerous (a malignant Schwannoma).
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Craniopharyngiomas:
Most commonly diagnosed in children and young adults, craniopharyngiomas develop near the base of the brain and can affect hormone regulation. Symptoms may include visual disturbances, hormonal imbalances, headaches, and cognitive deficits. Treatment typically involves surgical resection, with additional therapies such as radiation or hormone replacement as needed. (Source)
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Haemangioblastomas:
These tumours arise from blood vessel cells in the brain and spinal cord. Symptoms may vary depending on their location and size but can include headaches, dizziness, weakness, and sensory disturbances. Treatment involves surgical removal, particularly for symptomatic or growing tumours, with periodic monitoring to detect recurrence. (Source, Cancer Research)
Gliomas:
Gliomas originate from the glial tissue, which supports and nourishes nerve cells in the brain. These tumours can vary in aggressiveness and may present with symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and neurological deficits depending on their location and size. Treatment typically involves a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. (Source: Johns Hopkins)
Pineocytomas
A pineocytoma is a tumor of the pineal gland, a tiny organ in the brain responsible for the production of melatonin (a sleep-regulating hormone). Pineocytomas typically develop as a solid mass in adulthood, although scans of the brain may show fluid-filled (cystic) areas inside them. Pineocytomas cause headaches, nausea, hydrocephalus, visual problems, and Parinaud syndrome. Pineocytomas grow slowly and seldom spread to other parts of the body. Source
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Pituitary Adenomas:
Originating from the pituitary gland, these tumours can disrupt hormone production and regulation, leading to a variety of symptoms such as changes in menstrual cycles, vision problems, fatigue, and weight changes. Treatment options include surgery, medication, and radiation therapy, depending on the size and type of adenoma and its impact on hormone levels and surrounding structures. (Source: NCBI)
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Glomus jugulare
Glomus jugulare tumors are rare, slow-growing, hypervascular tumors that develop within the temporal bone’s jugular foramen and frequently affect the lower cranial nerves. Glomus jugular tumors develop from glomus cells in the jugular bulb’s outermost wall. These tumors are usually benign, or noncancerous, but their existence might result in hearing loss, swallowing difficulties, and facial paralysis. Imaging tests and a biopsy can be used by your doctor to confirm the presence of a glomus jugular tumor. Source
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Benign brain tumours are typically graded on a scale from 1 to 4 based on their growth rate and likelihood of recurrence. Grades 1 and 2 tumours are slow-growing and less likely to spread, making them more manageable with treatment.
Symptoms of Benign Brain Tumors
The symptoms of a benign brain tumour can vary depending on its size and location. Common symptoms include (Source: AANS):
- Persistent headaches, especially if they are new or worsening
- Seizures or epileptic fits
- Nausea, vomiting, and drowsiness
- Changes in mental or behavioral patterns, such as personality changes
- Weakness, paralysis, vision problems, or speech difficulties
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause of most benign brain tumours remains unknown. However, several risk factors may increase the likelihood of their development, including age, family history, genetic conditions, and previous exposure to radiation therapy.
Treatment and Recovery
Treatment for benign brain tumours typically involves surgical removal whenever possible. Complete removal often prevents recurrence, but in cases where complete removal isn’t feasible, additional treatments such as radiotherapy or chemotherapy may be necessary to control remaining abnormal cells.
After treatment, some individuals may experience persistent issues such as seizures or difficulties with speech and mobility. Supportive therapies and rehabilitation can help manage these challenges, enabling individuals to gradually resume their normal activities and improve their quality of life.
While benign brain tumours are not cancerous, they still require careful management and treatment to minimize potential complications. Understanding the different types, symptoms, and treatment options is crucial for effectively addressing these tumors and promoting recovery and well-being for affected individuals. If you suspect you or a loved one may have a brain tumour, seeking medical attention promptly is essential for proper diagnosis and management.
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