What is a brain tumor?

A brain tumor is a mass or growth of abnormal cells in your brain. Many different types of brain tumors exist. Some tumors are cancerous (malignant), while others are noncancerous (benign). When benign or malignant tumors grow, they can cause the pressure inside your skull to increase. This can cause brain damage, and can be life-threatening.

Brain tumors are categorized as primary or secondary. A primary brain tumor originates in your brain. Many primary brain tumors are benign. A secondary brain tumor, also known as a metastatic brain tumor, occurs when cancer cells spread to your brain from another part of your body, such as your lung or breast.

What are the early warning signs of a brain tumor?

The signs and symptoms of a brain tumor vary depending on the tumor’s size, location and rate of growth.

General signs and symptoms may include:

  • New onset or change in pattern of headaches

  • Headaches that gradually become more frequent and more severe

  • Unexplained nausea or vomiting

  • Vision problems, such as blurred vision, double vision or loss of peripheral vision

  • Gradual loss of sensation or movement in an arm or a leg

  • Difficulty with balance

  • Speech difficulties

  • Confusion in everyday matters

  • Personality or behavior changes

  • Seizures, especially in someone who doesn't have a history of seizures

  • Hearing problems

When should I contact my doctor? 

Make an appointment with your health care provider if you have persistent signs and symptoms that concern you.

World-class neurological care, right here at home

Brain tumor treatment options at St. Charles depend on the type of brain tumor you have, as well as its size and location. 

If it's suspected that you have a brain tumor, your care team may perform a number of tests and procedures, including:

  • A neurological exam to check your vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength and reflexes.

  • Imaging tests. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used to help diagnose brain tumors. In some cases a dye may be injected through a vein in your arm during your MRI study.

  • Tests to find cancer in other parts of your body. If it's suspected that your brain tumor may be a result of cancer that has spread from another area of your body, your doctor may recommend tests and procedures to determine where the cancer originated. 

  • Collecting and testing a sample of abnormal tissue (biopsy). A biopsy can be performed as part of an operation to remove the brain tumor, or a biopsy can be performed using a needle.The biopsy sample is then viewed under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous or benign. 

At. St. Charles, our team of experts will use these diagnostic techniques to carefully plan your operation and reduce the risk of needing follow-up surgery.