Brain tumour, malignant (cancerous)

Source: NHS

Articles for Brain tumour, malignant (cancerous)

Causes

Most malignant brain tumours are caused by a cancer that started somewhere else in the body and spread to the brain, through the bloodstream.

Diagnosis

If you develop the symptoms of a brain tumour, such as a persistent and severe headache, see your GP.

Introduction

A malignant brain tumour is a fast-growing cancer that spreads to other areas of the brain and spine.

Patient story: "Dad left a lasting impression and many happy memories."

John Pettyfer was just 51 years old when his life was cut short by an aggressive type of brain tumour called a glioblastoma multiforme. His daughter Clare tells his story.

Patient story: "Doctors told us that they could only delay his death."

Neville Holt passed away at the age of 74 after being diagnosed with an aggressive type of brain tumour called a gliosarcoma. His son Chris tells his story.

Patient story: "I hadn’t even suspected that it could have been a brain tumour."

Emily Jones was diagnosed with a brain tumour after experiencing repeated vomiting and dizziness for over a year.

Patient story: "I'm definitely one of the lucky ones."

April Watkins was diagnosed with a brain tumour soon after starting university. She tells her story.

Patient story: "I've had eight or nine head operations, but it had to be done."

After collapsing at work, Alan Thomas was diagnosed with a brain tumour.He tells his story.

Patient story: "My survival so far should give hope to others."

When David Grant was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumour, he was determined to live long enough to see his young daughter grow up. He tells his story.

Recovery and follow-up after brain tumor

Malignant brain tumours often grow back after treatment, so regular follow-up appointments will be recommended to look for signs that this may have happened.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a malignant brain tumour depend on how big it is and where it is in the brain.

Treatment

If you have a malignant brain tumour, you'll usually need surgery to remove as much of it as possible.