A tumor is a group of abnormal cells. Tumors can be located in the brain or around the spinal cord. There are many types of tumors, including ependymomas, gliomas, glioblastomas, choroid plexus tumors, lymphoma, meningiomas, pituitary tumors, skull base tumors, medulloblastomas, oligodendrogliomas, and skull base tumors.
Symptoms: The exact symptoms of a tumor depend on where it is located and how far it has spread. The most common symptoms of brain tumors include headaches, seizures, changes in mental function, and weakness in some spots. Other possible symptoms include confusion, hand tremors, eye abnormalities, personality changes, dizziness, and trouble swallowing.
Symptoms of spinal tumors include progressive back pain, loss of leg sensation, urinary or bowel issues, muscle spasms, and an uncomfortable cooling sensation in the hands, fingers, and legs.
Treatments: Treatments for brain tumors include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery to remove the tumor. Spinal tumor treatments include chemotherapy, radiation therapy, spinal surgery, and corticosteroids to reduce swelling.