Brain Cancer
What is Brain Cancer?
Brain cancer arises when cancer cells (uncontrollable growth of cells) grow in the brain or in organs adjacent to the brain. The tumors may be primary (in the brain) or secondary (metastatic from another location). Depending on their location and nature, they can disrupt essential functions like thinking, movement, and sensation. At Everhope, our empathetic clinicians utilize state-of-the-art diagnostics and personally tailored treatment programs to walk patients through every step of their process.
Brain Cancer Types
Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)
•It is the most malignant and common brain cancer in adults. It originates from glial cells, grows rapidly, and spreads to surrounding brain tissue. Headaches, seizures, and memory loss ensue. Surgery, irradiation, and chemotherapy are common therapies, but prognosis is guarded due to its high rate of recurrence.
Astrocytoma
•Astrocytomas are derived from brain cells called astrocytes, which are star-shaped. They are low-grade (slow-growing) to high-grade (malignant), so we can't predict their behavior. Symptoms depend on where the tumor is and can lead to seizures, neurological deterioration, and personality changes. Treatment involves surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy depending on grade.
Meningioma
•Meningiomas originate from the meninges, which are covering layers of the brain and spinal cord. They are most often slow-growing and benign but atypical or malignant in certain instances. Headaches, visual changes, or neurologic deficits due to the effect of pressure are the typical presenting signs. Treatment of meningiomas is with observation, surgery, or radiation.
Oligodendroglioma
•Oligodendrogliomas are more treatable, slow-growing brain tumors that develop from oligodendrocytes. These cells support and insulate nerve cells. Patients develop fewer symptoms than other gliomas, most often seizures and mental problems. Long-term prognosis is better than for other gliomas, particularly glioblastoma, with early detection. Patients develop fewer symptoms than other gliomas, more often seizures and mental problems.
Ependymoma
•Ependymomas are tumors that arise from ependymal cells lining the ventricles of the brain and the spinal cord. They arise in children and adults and are characterized by headache, nausea, and loss of balance. They are treated most commonly by surgery, with radiation therapy being added, particularly in children.
Medulloblastoma
•Medulloblastomas are cerebellar tumors of the brain that most commonly occur in children. Medulloblastomas metastasize via cerebrospinal fluid to the spinal cord. Symptoms and signs are poor coordination, headache, and vomiting. The treatment is with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy with better survival rates in recent times.
Pituitary Adenona
•Pituitary adenomas are generally benign tumors of the pituitary gland. Although noncancerous, they can disrupt hormone balance and cause symptoms like vision changes, weakness, or abnormal menstruation. Some must be removed surgically, but others can be treated with medication or follow-up on a regular basis depending on size and activity.
Primary CNS Lymphoma
•Primary Central Nervous System (CNS) Lymphoma is a rare, aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma confined to the brain, spinal cord, or eyes. It may occur in immunocompromised or immunocompetent hosts. Presentation is headache, personality change, and confusion. Treatment of choice is high-dose chemotherapy and radiation, with close follow-up for relapse.
Brain Cancer Symptoms
- •
Chronic pain that worsens with night or with no obvious injury could be a sign of underlying bone abnormalities.
- •
A swelling or lump over a bone, usually firm and slowly enlarging, may indicate tumor growth.
- •
Brittle bones that break easily from minor falls or movements could be an early sign of bone weakened by cancer.
- •
Weight loss without trying can signal the body's response to the metabolic demands of cancer.
- •
Pain, anemia, or cancer-induced bone damage causes chronic fatigue and decreased ability to move involved limbs.
What’s Notable
Though rare, bone cancer is one of the most dangerous cancers in children and teenagers.
Osteosarcoma peaks during the adolescent growth spurt and, therefore, early detection in adolescence is important.
Delays in diagnosis usually result in bone cancer that is much progressed in stage, and treatment and recovery are more complicated.
When to Seek Help
Worsening headache in the mornings may reflect greater pressure from a brain tumor. Seizure patterns changing or seizures occurring may reflect irregular brain activity from a tumor. Blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty hearing can be due to tumors pressing sensory nerves. Trouble with speech or word-finding can be related to speech center tumors.
Brain Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Genetic disorders (e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome, inherited retinoblastoma)
Certain inherited genetic abnormalities may significantly increase lifetime risk of developing bone cancer.
Prior bone exposure to radiation
A prior exposure to high doses of radiation, especially in children, can damage bone cells and lead to cancer many years later.
Paget's bone disease (particularly in old age)
It is a chronic bone disease resulting in abnormal bone remodeling, making the elderly susceptible to malignant transformation.
Bone trauma or long-standing bone inflammation
Recurring inflammation or long-standing damage to the same bone can result in abnormal cell growth over a period of time.
History of bone cancer in the family
First-degree relatives with a history of bone cancer can suggest inherited susceptibility or shared risk factors.
Brain Cancer Diagnosis
Early Symptoms & Check Up
Step 1: Early Symptoms & Check-up
- Common symptoms: fatigue, spontaneous bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, swollen lymph glands
- Physician performs a physical exam and reviews medical history
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Blood Tests
Step 2: Blood Tests
- Tests include Complete Blood Count (CBC) and peripheral blood smear
- Abnormal blood counts may indicate blood cancer
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 3: Bone Marrow Biopsy
- Confirms the diagnosis and identifies the specific type of blood cancer
Imaging Tests
Step 4: Imaging Tests
- PET, CT, or MRI scans assess the extent and spread of cancer, especially for lymphoma
Genetic & Molecular Testing
Step 5: Genetic & Molecular Testing
- Detects mutations in cancer cells and helps guide targeted treatment decisions
Staging & Risk Stratification
Step 6: Staging & Risk Stratification
- Determines the stage and risk level of cancer (e.g., Rai staging for CLL, Ann Arbor staging for lymphoma)
- Important for prognosis and treatment planning
Step 7: Next Steps
Step 7: Next Steps
- Oncology team formulates a personalized treatment plan based on cancer type, stage, and overall health
Step 1: Early Symptoms & Check-up
- Common symptoms: fatigue, spontaneous bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, swollen lymph glands
- Physician performs a physical exam and reviews medical history
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Step 2
Blood Tests
Step 3
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 4
Imaging Tests
Step 5
Genetic & Molecular Testing
Step 6
Staging & Risk Stratification
Step 7
Step 7: Next Steps
Brain Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy
What it does:
Destroys proliferating brain and spine cancer cells.
Treated for:
Medulloblastoma, CNS lymphoma, high-grade gliomas
Recovery:
Administered in cycles; may come with hair loss, nausea, and fatigue, and needs close monitoring.
Targeted Therapy
What it does :
Stops specific genes or proteins from helping brain tumors to grow.
Treated for:
Tumors with recognized mutations such as EGFR, BRAF, IDH1
Common medications:
Bevacizumab, Everolimus
Recovery:
Tumor genetics and response-dependent; fewer side effects than usual chemo
Immunotherapy
What it does:
Stimulates the immune system to recognize and eliminate tumor cells.
Used for:
Recurrent glioblastoma, CNS lymphoma, clinical trials
Drugs used:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (nivolumab, pembrolizumab)
Recovery:
Individual response; fatigue and swelling can occur.
External Beam Radiation
What it does:
Delivers high-energy beams that kill tumor tissue without injuring surrounding areas.
Treated for:
Gliomas, medulloblastomas, meningiomas following surgery
Common features:
Outpatient, scalp irritation and fatigue are usual
Recovery:
Weeks to months depending on dose and area of treatment.
Proton Therapy
What it does:
Precise radiation ideal for children and tumors close to critical brain structures.
Treated for:
Pediatric tumors, base-of-skull tumors, sensitive locations in brain.
Recovery:
Less cognitive side effects, particularly in children.
Craniotomy (Tumor Resection)
What it does:
Operating to remove brain tumor with function preserved.
Treated for:
Gliomas, meningiomas, metastases
Recovery:
Variable based on size and site; may include physical, speech, or occupational therapy.
Minimally Invasive Neuroendoscopy
What it does:
Utilizes small scopes to destroy tumors or cysts with minimal disruption.
Treated for:
Pituitary tumors, colloid cysts.
Recovery:
Less healing, less complications, shorter hospital stay.
•
Spinal Cord Surgery
What it does:
Excises tumors from or near the spinal cord.
Treated for:
Intramedullary or extramedullary spinal tumors
Recovery:
Needs post-op rehab and mobility aid.
Combination Therapy
Goal:
Enhance efficacy with more than one modality of treatment.
What it is:
Chemo + radiation or surgery + immunotherapy
Used for:
Recurrent CNS tumors, Glioblastoma
Recovery:
Close monitoring for additive side effects.
Palliative Care
Goal:
Relief of pain, seizures, pressure symptoms, and emotional distress.
Used for:
Recurrent or advanced brain cancers
Recovery:
Improves quality of life with minimal medical burden.
Management and Prevention
Seizure Control
•Anti-epileptics and routine brain imaging
Rehab Support
•Speech, occupational, and mobility therapy
Regular Monitoring
•Imaging follow-ups and neurological exams
Mental Wellness
•Access to neuropsychologists and counseling
Caregiver Support
•Family therapy and patient education
Coping Tools
•Meditation, journaling, music, and spiritual healing
Brain-Healthy Diet
•Low sugar, omega-3s, antioxidants
Cognitive Stimulation
•Socializing, puzzles, reading
Fall Prevention
•Home safety modifications
Brain Cancer Types
Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)
•It is the most malignant and common brain cancer in adults. It originates from glial cells, grows rapidly, and spreads to surrounding brain tissue. Headaches, seizures, and memory loss ensue. Surgery, irradiation, and chemotherapy are common therapies, but prognosis is guarded due to its high rate of recurrence.
Astrocytoma
•Astrocytomas are derived from brain cells called astrocytes, which are star-shaped. They are low-grade (slow-growing) to high-grade (malignant), so we can't predict their behavior. Symptoms depend on where the tumor is and can lead to seizures, neurological deterioration, and personality changes. Treatment involves surgical resection, radiation, and chemotherapy depending on grade.
Meningioma
•Meningiomas originate from the meninges, which are covering layers of the brain and spinal cord. They are most often slow-growing and benign but atypical or malignant in certain instances. Headaches, visual changes, or neurologic deficits due to the effect of pressure are the typical presenting signs. Treatment of meningiomas is with observation, surgery, or radiation.
Oligodendroglioma
•Oligodendrogliomas are more treatable, slow-growing brain tumors that develop from oligodendrocytes. These cells support and insulate nerve cells. Patients develop fewer symptoms than other gliomas, most often seizures and mental problems. Long-term prognosis is better than for other gliomas, particularly glioblastoma, with early detection. Patients develop fewer symptoms than other gliomas, more often seizures and mental problems.
Ependymoma
•Ependymomas are tumors that arise from ependymal cells lining the ventricles of the brain and the spinal cord. They arise in children and adults and are characterized by headache, nausea, and loss of balance. They are treated most commonly by surgery, with radiation therapy being added, particularly in children.
Medulloblastoma
•Medulloblastomas are cerebellar tumors of the brain that most commonly occur in children. Medulloblastomas metastasize via cerebrospinal fluid to the spinal cord. Symptoms and signs are poor coordination, headache, and vomiting. The treatment is with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy with better survival rates in recent times.
Pituitary Adenona
•Pituitary adenomas are generally benign tumors of the pituitary gland. Although noncancerous, they can disrupt hormone balance and cause symptoms like vision changes, weakness, or abnormal menstruation. Some must be removed surgically, but others can be treated with medication or follow-up on a regular basis depending on size and activity.
Primary CNS Lymphoma
•Primary Central Nervous System (CNS) Lymphoma is a rare, aggressive type of non-Hodgkin lymphoma confined to the brain, spinal cord, or eyes. It may occur in immunocompromised or immunocompetent hosts. Presentation is headache, personality change, and confusion. Treatment of choice is high-dose chemotherapy and radiation, with close follow-up for relapse.
Brain Cancer Symptoms
- •
Chronic pain that worsens with night or with no obvious injury could be a sign of underlying bone abnormalities.
- •
A swelling or lump over a bone, usually firm and slowly enlarging, may indicate tumor growth.
- •
Brittle bones that break easily from minor falls or movements could be an early sign of bone weakened by cancer.
- •
Weight loss without trying can signal the body's response to the metabolic demands of cancer.
- •
Pain, anemia, or cancer-induced bone damage causes chronic fatigue and decreased ability to move involved limbs.
What’s Notable
Though rare, bone cancer is one of the most dangerous cancers in children and teenagers.
Osteosarcoma peaks during the adolescent growth spurt and, therefore, early detection in adolescence is important.
Delays in diagnosis usually result in bone cancer that is much progressed in stage, and treatment and recovery are more complicated.
When to Seek Help
Worsening headache in the mornings may reflect greater pressure from a brain tumor. Seizure patterns changing or seizures occurring may reflect irregular brain activity from a tumor. Blurred vision, double vision, or difficulty hearing can be due to tumors pressing sensory nerves. Trouble with speech or word-finding can be related to speech center tumors.
Brain Cancer Causes & Risk Factors
Genetic disorders (e.g., Li-Fraumeni syndrome, inherited retinoblastoma)
Certain inherited genetic abnormalities may significantly increase lifetime risk of developing bone cancer.
Prior bone exposure to radiation
A prior exposure to high doses of radiation, especially in children, can damage bone cells and lead to cancer many years later.
Paget's bone disease (particularly in old age)
It is a chronic bone disease resulting in abnormal bone remodeling, making the elderly susceptible to malignant transformation.
Bone trauma or long-standing bone inflammation
Recurring inflammation or long-standing damage to the same bone can result in abnormal cell growth over a period of time.
History of bone cancer in the family
First-degree relatives with a history of bone cancer can suggest inherited susceptibility or shared risk factors.
Brain Cancer Diagnosis
Early Symptoms & Check Up
Step 1: Early Symptoms & Check-up
- Common symptoms: fatigue, spontaneous bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, swollen lymph glands
- Physician performs a physical exam and reviews medical history
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Blood Tests
Step 2: Blood Tests
- Tests include Complete Blood Count (CBC) and peripheral blood smear
- Abnormal blood counts may indicate blood cancer
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 3: Bone Marrow Biopsy
- Confirms the diagnosis and identifies the specific type of blood cancer
Imaging Tests
Step 4: Imaging Tests
- PET, CT, or MRI scans assess the extent and spread of cancer, especially for lymphoma
Genetic & Molecular Testing
Step 5: Genetic & Molecular Testing
- Detects mutations in cancer cells and helps guide targeted treatment decisions
Staging & Risk Stratification
Step 6: Staging & Risk Stratification
- Determines the stage and risk level of cancer (e.g., Rai staging for CLL, Ann Arbor staging for lymphoma)
- Important for prognosis and treatment planning
Step 7: Next Steps
Step 7: Next Steps
- Oncology team formulates a personalized treatment plan based on cancer type, stage, and overall health
Step 1: Early Symptoms & Check-up
- Common symptoms: fatigue, spontaneous bruising or bleeding, frequent infections, swollen lymph glands
- Physician performs a physical exam and reviews medical history
Your role: Share any changes you’ve noticed openly.
Step 2
Blood Tests
Step 3
Biopsy (Definitive Test)
Step 4
Imaging Tests
Step 5
Genetic & Molecular Testing
Step 6
Staging & Risk Stratification
Step 7
Step 7: Next Steps
Brain Cancer Treatment
Chemotherapy
What it does:
Destroys proliferating brain and spine cancer cells.
Treated for:
Medulloblastoma, CNS lymphoma, high-grade gliomas
Recovery:
Administered in cycles; may come with hair loss, nausea, and fatigue, and needs close monitoring.
Targeted Therapy
What it does :
Stops specific genes or proteins from helping brain tumors to grow.
Treated for:
Tumors with recognized mutations such as EGFR, BRAF, IDH1
Common medications:
Bevacizumab, Everolimus
Recovery:
Tumor genetics and response-dependent; fewer side effects than usual chemo
Immunotherapy
What it does:
Stimulates the immune system to recognize and eliminate tumor cells.
Used for:
Recurrent glioblastoma, CNS lymphoma, clinical trials
Drugs used:
Immune checkpoint inhibitors (nivolumab, pembrolizumab)
Recovery:
Individual response; fatigue and swelling can occur.
External Beam Radiation
What it does:
Delivers high-energy beams that kill tumor tissue without injuring surrounding areas.
Treated for:
Gliomas, medulloblastomas, meningiomas following surgery
Common features:
Outpatient, scalp irritation and fatigue are usual
Recovery:
Weeks to months depending on dose and area of treatment.
Proton Therapy
What it does:
Precise radiation ideal for children and tumors close to critical brain structures.
Treated for:
Pediatric tumors, base-of-skull tumors, sensitive locations in brain.
Recovery:
Less cognitive side effects, particularly in children.
Craniotomy (Tumor Resection)
What it does:
Operating to remove brain tumor with function preserved.
Treated for:
Gliomas, meningiomas, metastases
Recovery:
Variable based on size and site; may include physical, speech, or occupational therapy.
Minimally Invasive Neuroendoscopy
What it does:
Utilizes small scopes to destroy tumors or cysts with minimal disruption.
Treated for:
Pituitary tumors, colloid cysts.
Recovery:
Less healing, less complications, shorter hospital stay.
•
Spinal Cord Surgery
What it does:
Excises tumors from or near the spinal cord.
Treated for:
Intramedullary or extramedullary spinal tumors
Recovery:
Needs post-op rehab and mobility aid.
Combination Therapy
Goal:
Enhance efficacy with more than one modality of treatment.
What it is:
Chemo + radiation or surgery + immunotherapy
Used for:
Recurrent CNS tumors, Glioblastoma
Recovery:
Close monitoring for additive side effects.
Palliative Care
Goal:
Relief of pain, seizures, pressure symptoms, and emotional distress.
Used for:
Recurrent or advanced brain cancers
Recovery:
Improves quality of life with minimal medical burden.
Management and Prevention
Seizure Control
•Anti-epileptics and routine brain imaging
Rehab Support
•Speech, occupational, and mobility therapy
Regular Monitoring
•Imaging follow-ups and neurological exams
Mental Wellness
•Access to neuropsychologists and counseling
Caregiver Support
•Family therapy and patient education
Coping Tools
•Meditation, journaling, music, and spiritual healing
Brain-Healthy Diet
•Low sugar, omega-3s, antioxidants
Cognitive Stimulation
•Socializing, puzzles, reading
Fall Prevention
•Home safety modifications
Why Choose Everhope For Brain Cancer?
At Everhope, our experts support your proactive care with advanced treatment — guiding you with knowledge, hope, and healing.
cases of brain tumors reported in India annually
People die every year because of brain tumors in India
Number of deaths every year in the world due to Brain and CNS cancers.
FAQs on Brain Cancer
No question is too small when it comes to your care
No, some are noncancerous (e.g., meningiomas), but all must be checked because of where they live.
Typically, it stays in the CNS but can spread inside the brain or spinal fluid.
Not always, some are discovered incidentally painless.
It depends on the site of the tumor. Function can be regained through rehabilitation.
Some are, others may require prolonged treatment like gliomas or metastases.
Today's methods reduce risk, but there is a possibility of cognitive effects — especially in children or with large-field radiation.
Find a Centre Near You
Gurgaon EBD 65
EBD 65, Sector 65, Golf Course Extension Road, Gurgaon