Get to know the 11 Types of Brain Tumors, from Mild to Malignant

There are various types of brain tumors, some start from the brain cells themselves, the spinal cord, or other parts of the body and then spread to the brain. Find out more about the various types in the following reviews.

Classification of Types of Brain Tumors

A brain tumor is a condition characterized by the growth of abnormal cells in or around the brain. These abnormal cells grow by themselves (primary) or as a result of metastasis or the spread of cancer cells from other organs (secondary).

Prime brain tumors are classified based on the origin of the tumor cells and the level of malignancy of the tumor in the brain.

Based on their origin, tumor cells can grow and form in almost all tissues or cells in the brain. Meanwhile, based on the level of malignancy, brain tumors are divided into:

• Benign tumor, is the least aggressive type of tumor. These tumors originate from cells around the brain, do not contain cancer cells, grow slowly, and have clear boundaries that do not spread to other tissues. At this level, the tumor does not have the potential to become a malignant tumor.
• Malignant tumoris a type of tumor that contains cancer cells, grows fast, has no clear boundaries, and can invade the surrounding brain tissue so that it usually has the potential to develop into brain cancer.
• Primary tumor, is a type of tumor that starts in brain cells and can spread to other parts of the brain or to the spine. Generally, these tumors rarely spread to other organs.
• Metastatic tumorsis a type of tumor that starts from other parts of the body but spreads to the brain.

Also Read: Getting to Know the Stage of Brain Cancer, Starting from the Beginning to the Final Stage

Recognizing the Different Types of Brain Tumors

It’s important to understand that how quickly a brain tumor grows can vary widely. The growth rate as well as the location of the tumor determines how the tumor affects the functioning of the nervous system. In addition, the choice of treatment also depends on the type, size and location.

The following are various types of brain tumors that can be recognized, including:

1. Acoustic Neuroma

Acoustic neuroma also known as vestibular schwannoma is a benign tumor that usually develops on the main nerve that leads from the inner ear to the brain (vestibular).

This situation can cause hearing loss to ringing in the ears. These tumors rarely grow rapidly and rarely interfere with vital brain functions.

2. Astrocytoma

Astrocytoma is a type of cancer that can form in the brain or spinal cord. This type of tumor can start in cells called astrocytes, which are the main glial cells in the central nervous system and play an important role in the physiological function of the brain.

Signs and symptoms of this disease depend on the location of the tumor. Astrocytomas that occur in the brain can cause seizures, headaches, and nausea.

Meanwhile, if it occurs in the spinal cord, it can cause weakness and disability in the area where the tumor grows. The aggressiveness (grade) of astrocytoma determines the prognosis and treatment options.

3. Carcinoma of the Choroid Plexus

Choroid plexus carcinoma or choroid plexus carcinoma is a type of malignant brain tumor, rare, and generally occurs in children. These tumors start near the brain tissue that secretes cerebrospinal fluid.

Meanwhile, a benign tumor in this area is called a choroid plexus papilloma or choroid plexus papilloma. As the tumor grows larger, it can affect the function of structures around the brain. This situation can cause excess fluid in the brain (hydrocephalus), irritability, nausea or vomiting, and headaches.

4. Craniopharyngioma

Craniopharyngioma or craniopharyngioma is a rare type of benign tumor. Craniopharyngioma starts near the pituitary gland. As these tumors grow slowly, they can affect the function of the pituitary gland and other nearby structures in the brain.

This type of tumor can occur at any age, but most often affects children and the elderly. Symptoms that can appear are gradual changes in vision, fatigue, excessive urination, and headaches.

Children with craniopharyngioma may experience slow growth and may have smaller bodies than they should.

Also Read: 5 Benefits of Omega-3 for Brain Health, Don’t Miss It

5. Ependymoma

Ependymoma is a type of tumor that can form in the brain or spinal cord. These tumors originate in the ependymal cells present in the brain and spinal cord that line the channels that hold the cerebrospinal fluid.

Although it can occur at any age, this type of tumor most often affects young children. A child who has this condition may experience headaches and seizures.

Ependymomas in adults are more likely to form in the spinal cord, and can cause weakness in parts of the body controlled by the affected nerves.

6. Glioblastoma

Glioblastoma is an aggressive type of cancer that can occur in the brain or spinal cord. These malignant tumors are formed from cells called astrocytes that support nerve cells.

Although it can occur at any age, this tumor tends to occur more often in people who are elderly. This situation can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, and seizures. Treatment can only slow the progression of the cancer and reduce symptoms.

7. Medulloblastoma

Medulloblastoma is a type of malignant brain tumor that starts in the cerebellum or cerebellum. The cerebellum is involved in coordination, balance and muscle movement.

These tumors tend to spread through the cerebrospinal fluid to other areas around the brain and spinal cord. This type of tumor rarely spreads to other areas of the body.

Although medulloblastoma is not inherited, certain syndromes such as Gorlin syndrome or Turcot syndrome may increase the risk. Although rare, this disease most often affects young children.

8. Meningioma

Meningioma is a tumor that arises from the meninges, the membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. While not technically a brain tumor, this condition can put pressure on the brain, nearby nerves, and blood vessels.

In many cases, meningiomas grow very slowly and may go years without causing symptoms. But sometimes, the effect on brain tissue, nerves or blood vessels can cause serious disability.

Although it can occur at any age, meningioma is more common in women and the elderly.

Also Read: Brain Lesions: Types, Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

9. Oligodendrogliomas

Oligodendrogliomas are tumors that can occur in the brain or spinal cord. These tumors form from oligodendrocytes, cells in the brain and spinal cord that produce substances that protect nerve cells.

Oligodendrogliomas can occur at any age, but most often affect adults. Signs and symptoms can include seizures and headaches. Weakness or disability can occur in parts of the body that are controlled by the affected nerve cells.

10. Pineoblastoma

Pineoblastoma is a rare and aggressive type of cancer that starts in the cells of the pineal gland in the brain. The gland that produces the hormone melatonin functions to regulate sleep cycles.

Pineoblastoma can occur at any age, but tends to occur most often in young children. This situation can cause headaches, drowsiness, and subtle changes in the way the eyes move. This type of tumor can spread to the brain and cerebrospinal fluid, but rarely outside the central nervous system.

11. Pituitary Tumor

Pituitary tumors are tumors in the pituitary gland (pituitary). Some pituitary tumors can cause the pituitary gland to produce lower levels of hormones.

In general, pituitary tumors are a type of benign tumor. The tumor remains in the pituitary gland or surrounding tissue, and has not spread to other parts of the body.

Now, that’s the various types of brain tumors that you need to recognize. Learning about as many types as possible can help determine the best treatment.

DoctorHealthy | © 2023 PT Media Kesehatan Indonesia. Copyright Protected