If an individual hears they are diagnosed with a brain tumor, it may often be thought that they have brain cancer. That is not always the case, however, as some brain tumors are not cancerous and do not call for treatments, such as radiation or chemotherapy. However, those that do have cancer can now rely on alternative brain cancer treatments as an effective healing method. Let’s evaluate the definition of a brain tumor further to better understand the necessary forms of treatment.
What is a Brain Tumor?
A brain tumor is considered an abnormal growth of cells in the brain, whether they are located in the cerebellum, cerebrum, or brain stem. A brain tumor is considered cancerous if the tumor type is cancerous. To relay a proper diagnosis, a neurosurgeon would need to conduct an MRI scan or a potential biopsy procedure to tell if the tumor type is a threat. Seeking out a scan like this can help you determine whether it’s a brain tumor vs. brain cancer. There are situations in which a brain tumor is not cancerous, therefore will not lead to brain cancer. Knowing the difference between a brain tumor and brain cancer will allow you to figure out the best course of action. First, you should know that the two types of brain cancers that can form include those from primary brain tumors, which originate in the brain or from secondary brain tumors (also referred to as metastatic brain tumor), which spreads from cancerous cells in other regions of the body. Cancer can also begin in other locations in the central nervous system including the spinal cord or peripheral nerves. Spinal cancer begins in the spinal cord or its surrounding structures. Malignant tumors are more aggressive tumors that are composed of cancer cells. As studied in clinical trials, these malignant tumors are composed of fast-growing and unusual looking cells that are considered to be cancer cells.1
Metastatic brain tumors grow very rapidly and consume areas of healthy tissue in the brain, then overpower the tissue’s space, blood vessels, and nutrients. Tumor cells require blood and nutrients to survive. Not all tumors are cancerous, and these tumors are referred to as benign tumors. The brain tumors, both malignant and benign, are dangerous in the fact that any tumor can create an increase of pressure along the brain. As the tumor grows, symptoms may worsen. The malignant brain tumors are likely to create more problems and affect the brain more aggressively than benign tumors would.1
While a benign tumor is noncancerous and less serious than a malignant tumor it can still create problems in the brain. Benign tumors can cause damage to the brain tissue and cause side effects, including that of headaches, fatigue, and blurred vision.2 It’s necessary to continue to receive treatment for that of a benign tumor to ensure an individual with a tumor has the best health options available. When asked, “are all brain tumors cancerous?”, the answer is no. However, as demonstrated, even benign tumors may need to be removed as a preventative measure.
What are the Types of Brain Tumors?
There are a number of various brain tumors, as discovered through extensive research and clinical trials. Below are the various types.
Astrocytomas
Astrocytomas are the most common central nervous system tumor and appear anywhere within the brain or spinal cord. They develop from astrocytes, which are small, star-shaped cells. As demonstrated in an MRI scan, these most often form in the cerebrum, which is the largest part of the brain.3 The cerebrum controls speech, movement, and emotions, and also reading, thinking, and learning. A type of astrocytoma that occurs in the brain stem is a brain stem glioma, which controls various vital functions including body temperature, blood pressure, breathing, hunger, and thirst. The brainstem is located in the lowest area of the brain, which connects to the spinal cord and brain. Tumors can be difficult to treat in this area. A neurosurgeon may be hesitant to biopsy or implement radiation therapy on such a delicate organ. In which this is the case, tumors like this can be considered an inoperable tumor.
Glioblastoma Multiforme
Another type of brain tumor is one called a glioblastoma multiforme, also known as a glioblastoma. This is a fast-growing and aggressive type of central nervous system tumor forming on the supportive tissue of the brain. This is a common aggressive brain cancer, located normally in the frontal and temporal lobes.4
Benign Tumors: Meningiomas, Craniopharyngiomas, and Pituitary
Meningiomas, craniopharyngiomas, and pituitary tumors are among the types of tumors that are benign. Meningiomas develop in the cells around the membrane and spinal cord. They are typically removed with surgery. Some do not require immediate attention through surgery and will remain undetected for many years as brain cancer symptoms may not be obvious.2
Craniopharyngiomas are developed in the area of the brain near the pituitary gland. They can sometimes be considered metastatic for putting pressure upon the hypothalamus5 and influencing the vital functions including body temperature, hunger, and thirst.
Pituitary tumors are lumps that originate in the pituitary, which is a small gland located beneath the brain and above the nasal passages. This gland produces hormones, controlling the levels of other hormones and is discharged by endocrine glands. This gives the gland a vital role as it’s responsible for controlling important bodily functions and the hormonal system. The pituitary tumors most often form in the anterior lobe, which is located in the front lobe. Pituitary tumors usually represent between 9 to 12 percent of all primary brain tumors. While pituitary tumors are often benign, they are usually likely to create other medical issues requiring therapy, due to their location near the brain and ability to produce excess hormones in the body.
How to Treat Tumors
While being diagnosed with a brain tumor can be overwhelming, there are options for treating the brain tumor. Depending on whether or not the tumor is cancerous, a team of professional doctors will be able to evaluate the best methods of fighting against the tumor. At the Immunity Therapy Center, your cancer needs are accounted for in the various alternative and natural approaches to the treatment of brain cancer. At our holistic cancer treatment center, we believe in tailoring your treatment to you, which is why we focus on alternative cancer treatment plans that are all-encompassing. If you believe you or a loved one may have a cancerous brain tumor, contact us today to learn the options you have available to you.
Written By: Dr. Adolfo Carrillo
Dr. Adolfo Carrillo is a Board Certified Medical Doctor from Universidad Autónoma de Baja California.
Dr. Carrillo has been collaborating with Dr. Bautista for over 5 years as a treating physician at the Immunity the Immunity Therapy Center. Dr. Carrillo is a charismatic Doctor whose knowledge and commitment to patient care and bringing healing to patients is a valuable asset to our center.
References:
- https://www.emedicinehealth.com/brain_cancer/article_em.htm#brain_cancer_facts
- https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Hope-Through-Research/Brain-and-Spinal-Tumors-Hope-Through
- https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Brain-Tumors
- https://www.aans.org/en/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Glioblastoma-Multiforme
- https://www.cancer.org/cancer/brain-spinal-cord-tumors-adults/about/types-of-brain-tumors.html
At Immunity Therapy Center, our goal is to provide objective, updated, and research-based information on all health-related topics. This article is based on scientific research and/or other scientific articles. All information has been fact-checked and reviewed by Dr. Carlos Bautista, a Board Certified Medical Doctor at Immunity Therapy Center. All information published on the site must undergo an extensive review process to ensure accuracy. This article contains trusted sources with all references hyperlinked for the reader's visibility.