Brain Tumors

Question 1

What is a Tumor?

Answer 1

• Mass of new tissue that persists and grows independently

- Glial or other support cells

Question 2

What is a Benign Tumor?

Answer 2

• Non-cancerous
• Not likely to recur after removal
• Damage due to pressure

Question 3

What is a Malignant Tumor?

Answer 3

• Cancerous
• Likely to recur after removal
• Progressive and life-threatening

Question 4

Type I: Encapsulated Tumor?

Answer 4

• Distinct entity
• May produce a fluid-filled cavity
• Puts pressure on the brain

Question 5

Type II: Infiltrating Tumor?

Answer 5

• Not separated from surrounding tissue

- May destroy healthy cells or interfere with cellular functioning

Question 6

What are the types of tumors? Effects on brain integrity?

Answer 6

1) Glioma: from glial cells and infiltrates brain substance
2) Meningioma: growths attached to the meninges; grow outside brain and well encapsulated; most benign of tumors
3) Metastatic: brain tumor resulting from a transfer of tumor cells (lung or breast); usually multiple

Question 7

What are the treatment types?

Answer 7

1) Surgery and Radiation

2) Chemotherapy: not as successful due to blood-brain barrier