Brain Tumor

Understanding Brain Tumors: Key Information for Patients Regarding Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment  

Facing a potential brain tumor diagnosis is extremely scary and anxiety inducing, but understanding your condition and treatment options will empower you to  make more informed decisions about your care. At New Jersey Brain and Spine, we are known for our caring and compassionate approach to care, as well as our deep expertise when it comes to brain tumors. Our team is made up of highly experienced neurosurgeons and specialists who can provide expert diagnosis, advanced imaging, and cutting-edge treatment options for patients throughout New Jersey and surrounding areas.

What is a Brain Tumor?

A brain tumor refers to an abnormal growth of cells within the brain or surrounding tissues. Brain tumors, also called cerebral tumors, are abnormal growths of cells in the brain that can either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). They can form in different parts of the brain and have varying effects on brain function and overall health.

There are two main types of brain tumors:

Primary tumors originate directly in the brain and are classified based on the type of cells that form the tumor. Primary brain tumors include:

• Gliomas (arising from glial cells)
• Meningiomas (developing from the meninges)
• Acoustic neuromas (affecting hearing and balance nerves)
• Pituitary tumors (occurring in the pituitary gland)
• Craniopharyngiomas and other rare types

Secondary tumors, also known as metastatic tumors,toccur when cancer cells spread to the brain from other parts of the body, such as the lung, breast, kidney, or skin. Approximately 30% of all brain tumors are metastatic, making early detection and treatment critical.

Causes of Brain Tumors

Brain tumors occur when cells located near or in the brain change their DNA. This causes the cells to form a growth, called a tumor. While the exact cause remains unclear in most cases, risks can include: 

• Genetic factors, such as hereditary tumors. These occur when parents pass DNA changes to their children but they are very rare (accounting for less than 5% of all brain tumors).
• Certain genetic syndromes, like neurofibromatosis, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and von Hippel-Lindau disease, can also increase the risk of brain tumors. 

Environmental and lifestyle factors can also increase risk. These include: 

• Previous radiation exposure to the head
• Age (risk increases with age, though some types of brain tumors are more common in children)
• Gender (certain types of brain tumors are more prevalent in males or females)
• Immune system disorders

For most people with brain tumors, the specific cause is never definitively determined. If you have a family history of brain tumors, it’s important to discuss this with your healthcare provider for appropriate screening recommendations.

Symptoms of Brain Tumors

Brain tumor symptoms depend on the size, location, and type of the tumor. The brain controls many vital functions, so symptoms can vary widely based on which area is affected. Common symptoms include:

Neurological symptoms

• Persistent headaches that worsen over time or change in pattern
• Seizures (occur in approximately 60% of patients with brain tumors)
• Changes in vision, including blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision
• Speech difficulties or language problems
• Balance and coordination issues
• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs

Cognitive and behavioral changes

• Memory problems or confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Personality or behavioral changes
• Mood changes or depression

Physical symptoms

• Nausea and vomiting, especially in the morning
• Hearing problems
• Dizziness or vertigo

When Headaches Signal Something Serious

As highlighted in our comprehensive headache guide, not all headaches require medical attention, but certain warning signs should prompt immediate evaluation. Brain tumor-related headaches often have distinct characteristics:

• Headaches that are worse in the morning
• Progressive worsening over weeks or months
• Headaches accompanied by neurological symptoms
• New headache patterns in people over 50
• “Thunderclap” headaches (sudden, severe onset)

Diagnosis and Evaluation

At New Jersey Brain and Spine, our comprehensive diagnostic approach ensures accurate identification and staging of brain tumors. The entire diagnosis process typically involves:

Neurological examination, during which our neurosurgeons perform detailed neurological assessments to evaluate:

• Cognitive function and mental status
• Motor skills and reflexes
• Sensory responses
• Coordination and balance
• Vision and hearing

Advanced imaging: 

• MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), which provides detailed images of brain tissue and is considered the gold standard for brain tumor diagnosis
• CT scan, which offers rapid imaging and is particularly useful for detecting bleeding or calcifications
• PET scan, which helps distinguish between tumor tissue and normal brain tissue
• Functional MRI, which maps brain activity to preserve critical functions during surgery planning

Additional testing might include: 

• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap) when indicated
• Blood tests to rule out other conditions
• Neuropsychological testing to assess cognitive function

Tissue analysis:

• We also work with partners to conduct biopsies (issue sampling to determine tumor type and grade) as well as molecular  testing to identify  specific genetic markers that guide treatment decisions

Treatment Options for Brain Tumors

Treatment for brain tumors at NJBS is individualized based on the tumor type, size, location, grade, and the patient’s overall health. Our multidisciplinary team develops comprehensive treatment plans that may include:

Surgical treatment

Surgery is often the first line of treatment for brain tumors and, in some cases, may be the only treatment needed. Our neurosurgeons at NJBS utilize the latest surgical techniques:

Traditional craniotomy

• This open surgical procedure allows direct access to the tumor and enables maximum safe tumor removal while preserving healthy brain tissue.

Minimally invasive procedures

• Endoscopic surgery for select tumors
• Stereotactic biopsy for diagnosis
• Laser ablation therapy

Advanced surgical technologies

• Intraoperative MRI guidance
• Brain mapping to preserve critical functions
• Fluorescence-guided surgery for enhanced tumor visualization

Non-surgical treatments

Radiation Therapy:

• External beam radiation therapy
• Stereotactic radiosurgery (Gamma Knife, CyberKnife)
• Proton beam therapy for select cases

Chemotherapy:

• Oral and intravenous medications
• Targeted therapy drugs
• Immunotherapy for specific tumor types

Combination Therapy: Many patients benefit from a combination of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy to achieve optimal outcomes.

Prognosis and Outcomes

The prognosis for brain tumor patients has significantly improved with advances in treatment. Survival rates vary widely based on several factors.

Factors affecting prognosis:

• Tumor type and grade
• Patient age and overall health
• Extent of surgical resection
• Response to treatment

General survival statistics:

• Benign tumor 5-year survival rates often exceed 90%
• Low-grade malignant tumor 5-year survival rates range from 70-85%
• High-grade malignant tumor outcomes vary, with ongoing research improving treatment options

At NJBS, our comprehensive approach and expertise in complex brain tumor cases has  consistently delivered outcomes that meet or exceed national benchmarks.

Case Study: Successful Meningioma Treatment

Sarah, a 45-year-old teacher from Princeton, New Jersey, began experiencing persistent headaches and mild vision changes. After initial evaluation by her primary care physician, she was referred to NJBS for specialized assessment. Advanced MRI imaging revealed a 3-centimeter meningioma pressing against her optic nerve.

Dr. George J. Kaptain and the New Jersey Brain and Spine team developed a personalized treatment plan involving microsurgical resection. Using advanced intraoperative imaging and neurophysiological monitoring, the surgical team achieved complete tumor removal while preserving all neurological function. Sarah returned to teaching within six weeks and remains tumor-free at her two-year follow-up.

This case exemplifies our commitment to combining cutting-edge technology with surgical expertise to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

Related Neurological & Spine Conditions

Brain tumors can be associated with or mimic other neurological conditions, such as:

• Brain aneurysms, which can cause sudden severe headaches
• Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs), which may present with seizures or headaches
• Hydrocephalus, which can develop secondary to tumor obstruction

Given the connection between brain and spinal health, brain tumor patients may also experience:

• Spinal tumors, which can  occur in conjunction with brain tumors
• Increased intracranial pressure affecting spinal fluid flow

Why Choose NJBS for Brain Tumor Treatment?

New Jersey Brain and Spine is the leading destination for brain tumor care in New Jersey. Our advantages include:

Expertise and experience

• Subspecialized expertise and advanced fellowship trained neurosurgeons 
• High-volume practice with extensive experience in complex cases
• Collaborative team made up of neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, medical neuro-oncologists, neuroradiologists, and neurologists

Advanced technology

• State-of-the-art imaging and surgical equipment
• Minimally invasive surgical options
• Comprehensive diagnostic capabilities

Personalized care

• Individual treatment planning for each patient
• Ongoing support throughout the treatment journey
• Convenient locations throughout New Jersey

Research and innovation

• Participation in clinical trials for novel treatments
• Continuous advancement in surgical techniques
• Collaboration with leading cancer centers

If you’re experiencing symptoms that may indicate a brain tumor or have been diagnosed with a brain tumor, don’t wait to seek expert care. Contact New Jersey Brain and Spine today to schedule a consultation with our experienced neurosurgical team. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to achieving the best possible outcomes.

FAQ

Contact NJBS

Schedule your consultation or call our office to speak with a member of our care team about your brain tumor treatment options.