Sign and symptoms of tumor in brain
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Signs and Symptoms of Brain Tumors
General Symptoms of Brain Tumors
Brain tumors can present with a variety of symptoms, which often depend on the tumor's location, size, and growth rate. Common general symptoms include headaches, nausea, and vomiting, which are frequently associated with increased intracranial pressure . Headaches are particularly prevalent, reported in up to 60% of cases. Other general symptoms include drowsiness, confusion, and cognitive impairment.
Focal Neurological Deficits
Focal neurological deficits are symptoms that result from the tumor affecting specific areas of the brain. These can include motor weakness, sensory abnormalities, and speech deficits. For instance, motor weakness and ataxia (lack of muscle coordination) are common presenting signs. Seizures are also a notable focal symptom, especially in patients with certain types of low-grade gliomas.
Visual and Motor System Abnormalities
Visual disturbances such as reduced visual acuity, optic atrophy, and abnormal eye movements are significant indicators of brain tumors, particularly in cases involving the optic pathways or posterior fossa. Motor system abnormalities, including gait disturbances and coordination issues, are also frequently observed .
Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms
Brain tumors can also lead to behavioral and psychological changes. Symptoms such as hallucinations, depression, anxiety, and decreased attention and awareness have been reported. These symptoms can significantly impact the patient's quality of life and may sometimes be the first indicators of a brain tumor.
Symptoms in Specific Tumor Locations
Intracranial Tumors
For intracranial tumors, common symptoms include headache, nausea, vomiting, and papilledema (swelling of the optic disc). In children under four years old, macrocephaly (abnormally large head), irritability, and lethargy are also prevalent.
Posterior Fossa Tumors
Tumors located in the posterior fossa often present with nausea, vomiting, headache, and abnormal gait and coordination. These symptoms are due to the tumor's proximity to the cerebellum and brainstem, which control balance and coordination.
Supratentorial Tumors
Supratentorial tumors, located above the tentorium cerebelli, commonly cause symptoms of raised intracranial pressure, seizures, and papilledema. These tumors can affect various brain functions depending on their exact location.
Brainstem Tumors
Brainstem tumors are associated with severe symptoms such as abnormal gait and coordination, cranial nerve palsies, and pyramidal signs (indicative of motor pathway damage). These symptoms reflect the critical functions controlled by the brainstem.
Spinal Cord Tumors
Spinal cord tumors often present with back pain, gait abnormalities, spinal deformity, focal weakness, and sphincter disturbances. These symptoms result from the tumor compressing the spinal cord and affecting nerve function.
Conclusion
Brain tumors can manifest through a wide range of symptoms, from general signs like headaches and nausea to specific focal deficits depending on the tumor's location. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for prompt diagnosis and treatment. A thorough neurological examination, including assessments of visual and motor systems, is essential for identifying potential brain tumors. Understanding the diverse presentation of these symptoms can aid clinicians in making timely and accurate diagnoses.
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