BTBD11
Brain Tumor Basics
Description
A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or the surrounding tissues. Brain tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign brain tumors do not spread to other parts of the brain or body, while malignant brain tumors can spread and invade surrounding tissues.
Brain tumors can vary greatly in size, location, and type. Some common types of brain tumors include:
- Gliomas: Tumors that arise from glial cells, which support and protect neurons.
- Meningiomas: Tumors that arise from the meninges, the membranes that cover the brain and spinal cord.
- Pituitary adenomas: Tumors that arise from the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of the brain that regulates hormone production.
- Medulloblastomas: Tumors that arise from embryonic cells in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls coordination and balance.
Associated Diseases
Brain tumors can be associated with a number of diseases and conditions, including:
- Neurofibromatosis: A genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow on the nerves.
- Tuberous sclerosis: A genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow in the brain and other organs.
- von Hippel-Lindau disease: A genetic disorder that causes tumors to grow in the brain, kidneys, and other organs.
Did you Know ?
According to the American Cancer Society, about 700,000 people in the United States are currently living with a brain tumor.
