When patients hear the term brain tumor, they tend to assume cancer. But not all brain tumors are malignant in nature. Many are benign, i.e., they do not get transmitted to other locations of the body. It is essential to know the difference between benign and malignant brain tumors , as well as their varieties, for better awareness and appropriate treatment.

Benign vs Malignant Tumors

Benign brain tumors are nonmalignant growths that grow slowly. They generally have definite borders and do not invade surrounding tissues. Still, although benign, they may create considerable trouble because of pressure on adjacent brain structures. Some of the more common benign tumors are meningiomas, pituitary adenomas, and acoustic neuromas. These are commonly cured with surgery or observation.

Malignant brain tumors, however, are cancerous. They will grow quickly and will invade neighboring brain tissue. One of the most virulent malignant brain tumors is glioblastoma and usually needs the therapies of surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. In contrast to cancers in other locations, brain tumors are not likely to spread out of the brain but may still be deadly because of their location and nature.

Primary vs Secondary Tumors
Brain tumors can be generally categorized as primary or secondary. Primary brain tumors arise within the brain or tissues covering the brain. They are either benign or malignant but are limited to the brain. Secondary or metastatic brain tumors, however, travel to the brain from cancers arising elsewhere in the body, for example, the lungs, breasts, or kidneys. They are more common than primary tumors and signify advanced-stage cancer.

Types According to Cell Origin
Brain tumors also are classified according to the cells they originate from.

Gliomas are those that originate from glial cells, cells that nourish and cushion nerve cells. These include astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and very malignant glioblastomas.

Meningiomas occur in the meninges, the protective membranes around the brain and spinal cord. These are commonly benign and slowly growing but may nonetheless compress important brain structures.

Schwannomas develop from Schwann cells, which cover nerves. The tumors are usually benign and involve nerves, typically the one associated with hearing and balance.

Pituitary tumors develop in the pituitary gland and may affect hormone secretion. Even if benign, they can affect various body processes based on hormonal imbalances.

Identifying the kind of brain tumor determines treatment and prognosis. Monitoring or single surgery may be enough for benign tumors, while malignant tumors can require long-term and aggressive management. Early diagnosis and accurate classification enable physicians to determine the best course of action.

Brain tumors do not necessarily mean cancer. Some are aggressive and harmful, but others are treatable and harmless.
Dr. Aditya Gupta, Director- Neurosurgery & Cyberknife, Artemis Hospital Gurugram