TREATING MALIGNANT BRAIN TUMORS

A malignant brain tumor is very serious and should be treated immediately before it spreads. Our team of experienced neurosurgeons and staff will be open and honest about your options and risks and will work with you toward the best possible outcome.

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Symptoms of a Malignant Brain Tumor

The following is a list of symptoms that can occur when a malignant brain tumor is present.

  • Severe headaches
  • Headaches that wake you at night
  • Seizures
  • Uncontrollable nausea
  • Confusion or disorientation
  • Trouble talking
  • Losing feeling in arms or legs
  • Difficulty maintaining balance
  • Personality changes

Risk Factors for Developing Malignant Brain Tumors

Age – anyone can develop a brain tumor, but you’re more at risk between ages 45 – 65

Radiation – previous exposure or history of undergoing radiation treatment

Cancer History – if you have had cancer previously, then you are at risk of having cancer spread to the brain

Family History – if anyone in your family has had any type of cancer, or specifically brain cancer

st louis malignant brain tumor doctor

Learn More About Malignant Brain Tumors

Types of Malignant Brain Tumors

Malignant Brain tumors can be primary brain tumors, meaning tumors that arise from the brain itself, or can be cancer that begins elsewhere and spreads to the brain.

Any cancer can spread to the brain, but common types include:

  • Breast cancer
  • Colon cancer
  • Kidney cancer
  • Lung cancer
  • Melanoma

Treatments for Malignant Brain Tumors

Malignant brain tumors often need to be removed to prevent further growth of the tumor. However, in some cases biopsy of the tumor can also be indicated to provide a diagnosis.

Learn more about a brain tumor resection with craniotomy.

Once a tissue diagnosis is obtained, radiation therapy is often performed either with whole brain radiation or focused radiation to certain areas.

Once a tissue diagnosis is obtained, chemotherapy can often be added to treat for any residual tumor or to treat the systemic disease.

Ready to learn more? Contact us today to get started.

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