Brain Tumors
Department of Brain Tumors
A brain tumor is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain. The anatomy of the brain is very complex, with different parts responsible for different nervous system functions. Brain tumors can develop in any part of the brain or skull, including its protective lining, the underside of the brain (skull base), the brainstem, the sinuses and the nasal cavity, and many other areas. There are more than 120 different types of tumors that can develop in the brain, depending on what tissue they arise from.
Types
1.Gliomas: Arise from glial cells; include astrocytomas and glioblastomas.
2.Meningiomas: Develop from meninges, usually benign.
3.Pituitary Adenomas: Tumors in the pituitary gland, often noncancerous.
4.Medulloblastomas: Common in children, cerebellum tumors.
5.Metastatic Tumors: Spread to the brain from other cancers.
6.Schwannomas: Develop from Schwann cells, often on nerves.
7.Craniopharyngiomas: Typically benign, near the pituitary gland.
Diagnosis
1.Imaging: MRI, CT scans visualize tumors.
2.Biopsy: Tissue sample for type confirmation.
3.Neurological Exam: Assess cognitive and motor functions.
Treatment
1.Surgery: Tumor removal when feasible.
2.Radiation Therapy: Targets cancer cells.
3.Chemotherapy: Drugs to destroy cancer cells.
4.Targeted Therapies: Specific molecular targets.
5.Immunotherapy: Enhances the immune system.
6.Symptomatic Care: Addressing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Brain Tumors Overview
- Surgery Time: 4 to 12 hours (depending on complexity)
- Stay in the Country: 4 to 8 weeks
- Rehabilitation Duration: 3 to 6 months
- Price: €20,000 to €60,000
- Initial Consultation: Diagnosis with imaging scans (MRI, CT) and consultation with a neurosurgeon.
- Pre-Surgery: Pre-operative assessments and planning for the surgical approach.
- Surgery: Removal of the brain tumor, which can last from 4 to 12 hours.
- Post-Surgery: Hospital stay for recovery and monitoring, usually 1 to 2 weeks.
- Rehabilitation: Physical and cognitive rehabilitation to support recovery.
- Final Recovery: Continued follow-up care, with monitoring for any recurrence.
