A brain tumor is a tumor originating from the brain. This tumor either started directly in the brain (primary brain tumors) or present in other body parts but now spread to the brain (secondary/metastatic brain tumors). Whether cancerous or noncancerous, the tumor growth varies from patient to patient. In a few patients, it grows slowly, but in a few, a lot faster. The slowly growing brain tumor is often unnoticeable and remains untreatable. Depending on your age at the time of diagnosis, the tumor may be fatal. Or you could live a full life and die as a result of something else. The survival rate of a brain tumor will be determined by the type of tumor, its location in the brain, and how it responds to treatment.
Why is early detection of a brain tumor a must?
Early detection of brain tumors is difficult and a significant unmet need. Patients with brain tumors may have nonspecific symptoms that are more usually associated with less serious diseases, making it difficult to evaluate which patient’s prioritization for brain imaging. Delays in diagnosis jeopardize timely access to therapy, potentially affecting the quality of life and survival. However, early detection will surely help a patient treat the brain tumor effectively and increase the survival rate even though the
survival rate of a brain tumor is relatively low.How to diagnose a brain tumor?
Imaging studies can assist doctors in determining if the tumor is a primary brain tumor or cancer that has spread to the brain from elsewhere in the body. Images of the human body’s interior are produced via imaging tests. When selecting a diagnostic test, your doctor may take the following variables into account:
- The suspected tumor type
- Symptoms and signs
- Age and overall well-being
- Outcomes of previous medical tests
Based on the above factors, the doctor may perform the below tests
- MRI
- Tissue sampling/Biopsy
- CT Scan
- PET Scan
- Myelogram
- Lumbar puncture or spinal tap
- Biomarker testing
- Electroencephalography
There are a few other tests, but various specialists majorly conduct these tests to diagnose a brain tumor.
What are various available treatment options?
A multidisciplinary team including different types of specialists frequently collaborates in brain tumor care to develop a patient’s overall treatment plan, which involves various forms of treatment. They provide the below common types of treatments
- Surgery
- Radiation Therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted Therapy
- Alternating electric field therapy
Does the treatment option affect the survival rate?
The survival rate of a brain tumor varies greatly depending on the type of tumor and the patient’s age. Various treatment options provided are dependent upon
- The tumor’s size, nature, and grade
- Exerting strain on key brain areas.
- Tumour progression to other areas of the CNS or the body,
- Side effects
- Preferences and general health of the patient
The above factors decide the type of treatment option provided to a patient, which affects the patient’s survival rate because every treatment has side effects. At times, a few drugs used via clinical research are very effective. Other treatment options like chemotherapy, surgery and targeted therapy have successfully treated the brain tumor, but their effectiveness varies from patient to patient.
Can a brain tumor reoccur after treatment?
Remission occurs when the tumor is no longer identifiable in the body. Remissions can be either temporary or permanent.
- It is typical for a brain tumor to recur in most original brain tumors, even when imaging studies suggest that tumor development is stopped or there are no visible tumor symptoms.
- Patients are frequently subjected to regular MRI scans to detect a recurrence. Many individuals are concerned that the tumor will recur due to this uncertainty.
- It is critical to discuss the risk of the tumor returning with your doctor. Understanding your recurrence risk and treatment choices may make you feel more prepared if the tumor returns.
How to get back to Normalcy After a Brain Tumor?
The patient may get dizzy spells and disorientation due to the medication and treatment. Swelling in the brain is expected following surgery, so healing will take time and the advantages may not be obvious right away. It might take some time to return to Normalcy but various healthcare professionals can help you in the following way
- A physiotherapist in overcoming mental barriers via counseling
- An occupational therapist to determine what assistance you require with daily activities such as dressing a speech
- Wellness activities
- Family support
- Positivity towards life
- Seek answers for your doubts and questions
Conclusion – Treatment for a brain tumor is life-changing. Some people heal completely and can return to work. Your specific situation determines the length of time it takes to recuperate. Earlier the brain tumor treatment options were not that effective but, innovation and research with scientific advancements has drastically increased the
survival rate of a brain tumor. As per the suitable treatment option provided by some best brains like Dr. Rana Patir, the chances of treating a brain tumor is increased multifolds.Also Read: Which Doctor to Consult for Mouth Ulcer
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