# Brain Cancer **Table of Contents** **Table of Contents** [Overview](#section-overview "Overview") [Signs & Symptoms](#section-4636 "Signs & Symptoms") [Benign vs. Malignant Brain Tumors](#section-4641 "Benign vs. Malignant Brain Tumors") [Causes of Brain Tumors](#section-5886 "Causes of Brain Tumors") [Treatments & Services](#section-5901 "Treatments & Services") [Find Care](#section-5891 "Find Care") [Request an Appointment](#section-8021 "Request an Appointment") ## Overview Brain cancer refers to malignant tumors that begin in the brain. These primary brain tumors are less common than many other cancers, but they can significantly affect neurological function depending on their type, size, and location. Not all brain tumors are cancerous. Benign tumors do not spread outside the brain, but both benign and malignant tumors can cause serious symptoms because they grow within the limited space of the skull. There are many types of brain tumors, each with different behaviors. Some grow slowly, while others progress more quickly. Cancers that begin elsewhere in the body can also spread to the brain. These are called metastatic brain tumors. The cause of most brain tumors is unknown. Factors such as prior radiation to the head or certain inherited genetic conditions can increase risk. Early evaluation by a specialist is important because treatment options depend on the tumor's type, grade, and location. ## Signs & Symptoms Brain tumor symptoms can vary widely and depend on the tumor's size, location, and how quickly it grows. Some symptoms develop gradually, while others may appear more suddenly. Common signs and symptoms may include: - Headaches that worsen over time or change from your usual pattern - Persistent nausea or vomiting without a clear cause - Vision changes, such as blurred or double vision or loss of peripheral vision - Weakness, numbness, or difficulty moving an arm or leg - Problems with balance or coordination - Speech or language difficulties - Increasing fatigue - Trouble with memory, concentration, or decision-making - Changes in personality, mood, or behavior - Seizures in someone without a previous seizure history - Hearing loss or ringing in the ears - Confusion or disorientation If you notice new neurological symptoms or a change in existing symptoms, it is important to seek medical evaluation. ## Benign vs. Malignant Brain Tumors Brain tumors are categorized based on how their cells behave and whether they have the potential to spread. Understanding the difference between benign and malignant tumors helps guide treatment decisions and gives patients a clearer sense of what to expect. Even benign tumors can be serious depending on their size and location, since any growth inside the skull can place pressure on surrounding structures. **Benign Brain Tumors (Noncancerous)****Malignant Brain Tumors (Cancerous)**Grow slowly and usually have well-defined bordersTend to grow more quickly than benign tumorsLess likely to spread into nearby brain tissueInvade surrounding brain tissue and are often harder to remove fullyMay be easier to remove surgically if in a safe, reachable areaCan spread within the brain and central nervous systemCan still cause significant symptoms due to pressure on the brainMore likely to recur and often require multiple treatment approachesLower chance of returning after treatment, though recurrence can still occurTypically associated with more aggressive symptoms due to rapid growth ## Causes of Brain Tumors *Primary Brain Tumors* Primary brain tumors start in the brain or nearby structures such as the meninges, cranial nerves, pituitary gland, or pineal gland. These tumors form when normal cells develop DNA changes that cause them to grow and divide faster than they should. Over time, these abnormal cells build up and create a mass. *Secondary (Metastatic) Brain Tumors* Secondary brain tumors occur when cancer from another part of the body spreads to the brain. These tumors are **far more common in adults** than primary brain tumors. Almost any cancer can metastasize to the brain, but the most common sources include: - [Breast cancer](/breast-cancer) - [Lung Cancer](/lung-cancer) - [Skin Cancer](/skin-cancer) - [Colon Cancer](/colon-cancer) - [Kidney Cancer](/kidney-cancer) Sometimes a brain metastasis is the first sign of an undiagnosed cancer elsewhere in the body. Primary brain tumors are less common in adults than metastatic brain tumors. They are categorized by the type of cell where they begin, including: ##### Gliomas Astrocytomas, ependymomas, glioblastomas, oligodendrogliomas ##### Meningiomas Arise from the brain’s protective membranes ##### Pituitary adenomas Affect hormone-producing cells ##### Medulloblastomas More common in children and known to spread through spinal fluid ##### Germ cell tumors Rare tumors that can occur in the brain ##### Craniopharyngiomas Slow-growing tumors near the pituitary gland ## Treatments & Services Treatments Treatment for brain tumors focuses on removing or controlling the tumor, protecting neurological function, and managing symptoms. The right approach depends on the type of tumor, its location, its growth pattern, and your overall health. [Chemotherapy](/all-treatments-services/chemotherapy) [Immunotherapy](/all-treatments-services/immunotherapy) [Radiation Therapy](/all-treatments-services/radiation-therapy) [Surgical Oncology](/all-treatments-services/surgical-oncology) [Targeted Therapy](/all-treatments-services/targeted-therapy) ## Find Care If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a brain tumor, you do not have to navigate the next steps alone. Our team includes specialists who work together to create a personalized treatment plan. We guide you from diagnosis through treatment and follow-up care, with experts close to home and ready to support you every step of the way. Our Locations We offer locations across the DFW metroplex so you can receive leading cancer care and support close to home. [Find a Location](/locations) Our Care Team Get to know the compassionate experts who guide your care with a whole-person approach—spirit, mind, and body. [Meet Our Team](/our-care-team) ## Request an Appointment Contact us to request an appointment or ask a question below. **For emergencies call 911 or visit your nearest hospital.** This form is blocked by your cookie preferences. Accept cookies to load form