CNS Tumours (Brain and spinal cord)

Brain and spinal cord tumours are abnormal growths of tissue found inside the skull or bony spinal column. About half of these tumours are primary tumours (i.e. originating from brain or spinal cord, usually from supportive glial tissue), and the rest are metastatic. In a small number of people, primary tumours may result from specific genetic disease (e.g. neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis) or from exposure to radiation or carcinogens. These tumours may be benign or malignant, but since the CNS is housed within the rigid bony confines of the skull, any tumour, whether benign or malignant, can place pressure on sensitive nervous tissues and impair function to produce symptoms. Symptoms of brain tumours include recurrent headaches, seizures, nausea and vomiting, visual or auditory problems, behavioural or cognitive problems, and impaired balance or motor function, depending on the site of the tumour. Spinal cord tumours may cause symptoms like pain, paraesthesias or motor problems.

The annual incidence of cerebral tumours is estimated to be about 40 per 0.25m population, with a prevalence of 110 per 0.25m. Of these 110, 40 may be left with a severe disability. Individuals of any age may develop a brain tumour. In fact, they are the second most common malignancy in children, preceded only by leukaemia’s, and are the 2nd most common cause of cancer-related death in people up to age 35. However, people in their 60’s face the highest risk: each year, 1 in every 5000 people in this age group develops a brain tumour.

Spinal cord tumours are a lot less common than brain tumours. Although they affect people of all ages, they are most common in young and middle aged adults.

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