How to Treat Malignant Brain Tumour?

What is a Malignant Brain Tumor?

A malignant brain tumor, also known as brain cancer, is a cancerous growth in the brain characterized by the rapid proliferation of abnormal cells. Unlike benign brain tumors, which are non-cancerous and typically grow slowly, malignant brain tumors have the potential to invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. These tumors are considered malignant due to their aggressive nature and their ability to infiltrate healthy brain tissue, posing significant risks to neurological function and overall health.

Why is Treating Malignant Brain Tumors Important?

Treating malignant brain tumors is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, these tumors can cause significant neurological symptoms, such as headaches, seizures, and cognitive deficits, which can greatly impact a person's quality of life. Additionally, if left untreated, malignant brain tumors can grow larger, causing increased pressure within the skull, leading to further neurological complications and potentially becoming life-threatening.

How to Treat Malignant Brain Tumors?

Treatment for malignant brain tumors typically involves a combination of approaches, including surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

1. Surgery: Surgery is often the first-line treatment for malignant brain tumors, with the goal of removing as much of the tumor as possible while preserving neurological function. Neurosurgeons use advanced techniques, such as image-guided navigation and intraoperative monitoring, to precisely target and remove the tumor.
2. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery to shrink the tumor or to destroy any remaining cancer cells. Modern radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic radiosurgery and intensity-modulated radiation therapy, allow for highly precise targeting of the tumor while minimizing damage to surrounding healthy tissue.
3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill cancer cells or inhibit their growth. It may be administered orally or intravenously and is often used in combination with surgery and radiation therapy. Chemotherapy drugs can cross the blood-brain barrier to reach tumor cells in the brain.