Cancer of the Nervous System Flashcards
Are primary or secondary tumours of the CNS more common?
Metastasis to the brain is most common.
Are tumours classified as benign or malignant?
No, as the skull is a confined space, any new mass can be fatal.
What features are linked to a brain tumour?
Progressive neurological deficit
Motor weakness
Raised ICP
Headache
What can swelling of brain tissue lead to?
Herniation
Is headache due to raised ICP worse in the evening?
No, it is worse in the morning and will wake up the individual.
This will occur alongside coughing and vomiting.
Can headache occur in the absence of a raised ICP in the context of a brain tumour?
Yes
Swelling of which nerve is referred to as papilloedema and indicates optic disc swelling?
CN2 - Optic nerve
In cases of suspected brain tumour, what investigations are used?
If acute onset, perform CT. Otherwise, MRI and biopsy are best.
What is the most common type of primary brain tumour?
Glial tumours (affecting glial cells).
Bilateral vestibular schwannomas indicate which condition?
Neurofibromatosis type 2
What is the most common benign brain tumour?
Meningioma
These are associated with breast cancer and NF2.
What is the most common nerve sheath tumour?
Acoustic neuroma
Why is surgery contraindicated in an acoustic neuroma?
As they develop too close to the cerebello-pontine angle.
What is the role of the pineal gland?
Regulates diurnal rhythm.
How are prolactinomas of the pituitary gland treated?
Cabergoline
