A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells inside the brain or central nervous system that multiplies uncontrollably and ignores normal cell-regulation signals. Tumors may be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous), and some can spread to other parts of the body (metastasis). Brain tumors are part of the many neuro conditions we treat at Midwest Spine & Brain Institute.
Tumors are classified by type and grade (I-IV) based on how quickly they grow and how likely they are to invade surrounding tissue.
Symptoms
Symptoms vary based on tumor size and location but may include:
- Persistent headaches
- Seizures
- Vision or hearing changes
- Weakness or numbness
- Balance problems
- Cognitive or behavioral changes (memory, mood, speech)
Some patients may also experience neurological changes requiring specialized care such as complex brain surgery.
Causes
Most tumors form due to complex genetic and environmental factors. Some are related to:
- Inherited genetic disorders (e.g., NF1, NF2)
- Prior radiation exposure
- Metastatic cancers (lung, breast, melanoma)
How Brain Tumors Are Diagnosed
Diagnosis uses high-resolution imaging and tissue analysis:
- MRI: Best for defining tumor structure and boundaries
- CT scan: Identifies mass effect, swelling, or bleeding
- PET scan: Assesses metabolic activity and tumor recurrence
- Biopsy: Confirms tumor type and grade
Imaging guides treatment planning and surgical approach. Patients with high-grade or difficult-to-access tumors may require brain tumor surgery.
How Are Brain Tumors Treated?
Treatment depends on tumor type, grade, symptoms, and patient age. Most plans combine surgery, radiation, and medical therapy to improve safety and long-term outcomes.
Treatment Options
1. Surgery (Craniotomy or Minimally Invasive Approaches)
Surgery is often the first-line treatment to remove as much tumor as safely possible. Goals include:
- Relieving pressure on the brain
- Removing tumor tissue
- Improving neurological symptoms
- Obtaining tissue for diagnosis
Craniotomy: A precise opening in the skull to access and remove the tumor.
Burr hole biopsy: A minimally invasive method when full removal isn’t possible.
Patients with complex cases may benefit from brain bypass surgery performed by experienced neurovascular surgeons.
2. Radiation Therapy
Uses targeted, high-energy beams to kill tumor cells or shrink tumors that cannot be removed surgically. Radiation is commonly used for:
- High-grade tumors
- Tumors in sensitive or deep locations
- Residual tumor after surgery
3. Chemotherapy & Targeted Therapies
Medications designed to slow or stop tumor growth. Newer targeted therapies may block specific genetic pathways involved in tumor development.
Recovery & Outcomes
Outcomes vary by tumor type and location. Many patients benefit from rehabilitation services:
- Physical therapy
- Occupational therapy
- Speech therapy
Supportive care helps maximize cognitive and functional recovery.
Minnesota & Wisconsin Brain Tumor Specialists
Midwest Spine & Brain Institute provides advanced brain tumor care throughout Minnesota, the Twin Cities metro, and western Wisconsin. Our team includes board-certified neurosurgeons such as Dr. Eric S. Nussbaum and Dr. Stefano Sinicropi who specialize in complex tumor resections and minimally invasive approaches.
Initial consultations, imaging review, and postoperative follow-up care are available at our Apple Valley and Burnsville locations. Advanced neurosurgical procedures are performed at specialized surgical centers, with coordinated care provided by the Midwest Spine & Brain Institute team.
FAQs About Brain Tumors (Adult & Pediatric)
Are all brain tumors cancerous?
No. Many tumors are benign, but even noncancerous tumors can affect brain function and require treatment.
What imaging is best for detecting brain tumors?
MRI is the most accurate test for identifying tumor size, location, and involvement with nearby structures.
Can brain tumors be cured with surgery alone?
Some low-grade or well-defined tumors can be effectively treated with surgery, but many require combined therapies, including brain tumor surgery.
How fast do brain tumors grow?
Growth speed depends on tumor grade. High-grade tumors grow quickly; low-grade tumors may grow slowly over years.
What symptoms require urgent evaluation?
Sudden headaches, seizures, weakness, vision loss, or changes in consciousness should be evaluated immediately.
Are pediatric brain tumors treated differently?
Yes. Children often require specialized treatment plans based on developmental needs and tumor type.