A brain tumor is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain. Brain tumors are be classified at primary or secondary. Primary tumors originate in the brain and can be malignant (cancerous) or benign (non- cancerous). Secondary tumors result from cancer that originates elsewhere and spreads to the brain.

Symptoms

• Persistent headache
• Double or blurred vision
• Vomiting
• Loss of appetite
• Changes in mood or personality
• Changes in ability to think and learn
• New onset of seizures
• Speech difficulty

Diagnosis    Diagnosing a brain tumor usually involves several steps. Your physician will perform a neurological exam, which includes checking your vision, hearing, balance, coordination and reflexes. Depending on the results of that exam, one of the following tests may be ordered:

• Computerized tomography (CT) scan
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan
• Angiogram
• X-rays of your head and skull

Treatment    Surgery is the main form of treatment for brain tumors in parts of the brain that can be removed without damaging critical neurological functions. The goal of surgery is to remove the entire tumor whenever possible. Our surgeons use state of the art intra-operative technology which enables them to target tumors more precisely. Radiation and/or chemotherapy may be used as a secondary treatment for tumors that cannot be cured through surgery alone.