Directory Image
This website uses cookies to improve user experience. By using our website you consent to all cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

What Is Brain Tumor?

Author: Magnus Tourism
by Magnus Tourism
Posted: Jul 28, 2016

The brain and spinal column make up the central nervous system (CNS), where all vital functions of the body are controlled. When tumors arise in the CNS, they are especially problematic because a person’s thought processes and movements can be affected. Also, these tumors can be difficult to treat because the tissues surrounding the tumor may be vital to functioning.

Anatomy of the brain

The cerebrum, the largest part of the brain, contains two cerebral hemispheres and is divided into four lobes where discrete functions occur.

  • The frontal lobe, which controls reasoning, emotions, problem-solving, and parts of speech and movement
  • The parietal lobe, which controls the sensations of touch, pressure, pain, temperature, and parts of speech
  • The temporal lobe, which controls memory, sense of hearing, and parts of speech
  • The occipital lobe, which controls vision

The cerebellum, or "little brain," is located beneath the cerebrum. The cerebellum is the back part of the brain responsible for coordination and balance.

The brain stem, which is the lowest portion of the brain and connects to the spinal cord, controls involuntary functions essential for life, such as the beating of the heart and breathing.

The meninges are the membranes that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. There are three meningeal layers, called the dura mater, arachnoid, and pia mater.

Types of brain tumors

Gliomas: – Gliomas as a group are considered the most common type of brain tumor. A glioma is a tumor that grows from a glial cell, which is a supportive cell in the brain. There are two types of supportive cells: astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. Therefore, most gliomas are called either astrocytoma or oligodendroglia, or a mixture of both. Gliomas are graded (how much the tumor appears like normal brain tissue) from I to IV based on their degree of aggressiveness. A grade I glioma is a benign tumor, while grades II through IV are tumors with an increasing degree of aggressiveness and are therefore considered increasingly malignant in potential.

Types of gliomas:

v Astrocytoma is the most common type of glioma. Astrocytomas begin in cells called astrocytes in the cerebrum or cerebellum. Glioblastoma multiforme (also called grade IV astrocytoma) is a very aggressive form of astrocytoma.

v Oligodendroglioma is a tumor that develops from cells called oligodendrocytes. These cells are responsible for producing the myelin that surrounds nerves.

v Brain stem gliomas begin in the glial cells in the brain stem.

v Ependymomas, which begin in the ependyma (the cells that line the passageways in the brain where cerebrospinal fluid is made and stored.

Get multiple opinion & quotes for Treatment in India, Multiple Opinion will help you take the right and informed decision. We will help you plan your medical tour Local Transportation, Internet Enabled SIM Card, Tickets, Accommodation, Forex services, and anything else you might need.

About the Author

Get multiple opinion & quotes for Treatment in India, Multiple Opinion will help you take the right and informed decision. We will help you plan your medical tour Local Transportation, Internet Enabled SIM Card, Tickets, Accommodation, Forex services

Rate this Article
Leave a Comment
Author Thumbnail
I Agree:
Comment 
Pictures
Author: Magnus Tourism

Magnus Tourism

Member since: Jul 28, 2016
Published articles: 17

Related Articles