BACKGROUND:
According to the National Institutes of Health, a primary brain tumor is a group of abnormal cells that start in the brain. These tumors can directly destroy brain cells. They can also damage cells by producing inflammation, putting pressure on other parts of the brain, and increasing pressure within in the skull. Brain tumors can be noncancerous (benign) or cancerous (malignant). The cause of primary brain tumors is unknown; however, there are some possible risk factors that may play a role. These can include radiation therapy to the brain and some inherited conditions. The risk of using cell phones has been debated in recent years. However, most studies have shown cell phones, cordless phones and wireless devices are safe and do not increase the risk.
SYMPTOMS:
There are many symptoms of a brain tumor. Some tumors may not cause symptoms until they have grown very large. These symptoms depend on the tumor's size, location, how far it has spread and related swelling. Some of the most common symptoms include headaches, seizures, weakness in one part of the body, and changes in a person's mental functions.
TREATMENT:
Treatment for brain tumors depends on each individual case but can involve surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. These types of tumors are typically best treated by a team involving a neurosurgeon, a radiation oncologist, an oncologist or neuro-oncologist, and other health care providers. Some tumors may be completely removed surgically. However, those that are deep inside the brain or those that enter the brain tissue may be debulked instead of entirely removed. Debulking is a procedure to reduce the tumor's size. Other medications may be used to treat primary brain tumors in children. Physical and occupational therapy may also be needed to improve quality of life in some patients.
LIFE-SAVING SURGERY:
Dr. Bob Shafa from UCLA had a patient with a brain tumor that threatened her sight. It was twisted around her optic nerve. The patient was losing vision rapidly and would become blind if the tumor became larger. The tumor was also strangling the major arteries that supply the brain with blood and oxygen. Dr. Shafa removed the upper portion of the patient's eye socket to gain a window into the tumor at the base of her skull. This was then placed back after the tumor was removed. Dr. Shafa performed the surgery under a microscope. Once the tumor was isolated, the microscope had to be used to meticulously separate it from the optic nerve and the major arteries of the brain. This process took many hours. Today, that patient is clear of any tumor. MORE
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT:
Mark Wheeler, Senior Media Relations Representative
UCLA Health Sciences
Los Angeles, CAmwheeler@mednet.ucla.edu
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Rescuing a Cop: Saving Christine From A Brain Tumor -- Research Summary | Medical News and Health Information
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