Brain Tumors: Causes, Types, and Symptoms
Brain tumors, whether benign or malignant, can cause harmful pressure inside the skull, leading to brain damage and potentially life-threatening complications. These tumors can be primary, originating in the parts of the brain, or secondary, spreading from another organ.
Brain tumors are classified based on their origin. Primary tumors, like gliomas, develop from glial cells supporting the central nervous system. Gliomas can be astrocytic, oligodendroglial, or glioblastomas, the most aggressive type. Malignant brain tumors, such as glioblastomas, grow rapidly and can spread, causing severe complications.
Other primary brain tumors include pituitary tumors, pineal gland tumors, ependymomas, craniopharyngiomas, primary CNS lymphomas, primary germ cell tumors, meningiomas, and schwannomas. Risk factors for brain tumors encompass family history, age, chemical and radiation exposure, and no history of chickenpox.
Brain tumors, whether benign or malignant, can cause significant pressure and damage. Primary tumors like gliomas and meningiomas, or secondary tumors from other organs, require prompt medical attention. Symptoms may include headaches, vomiting, and changes in mental functioning. The most common adult primary malignant brain tumor is glioblastoma multiforme, a malignant astrocytoma.
