Brain Tumour & Brain Cancer in Malaysia: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Outcomes

Brain tumours and brain cancer represent some of the most challenging medical conditions, with complex symptoms and a range of potential outcomes. This article aims to provide an in-depth understanding of what brain tumours and brain cancer are, the different types, causes, symptoms to watch for, how they are diagnosed, and the treatment options available in Malaysia. The goal is to educate and inform the general public and potential patients about these conditions, enabling them to seek timely medical advice and treatment.

What are Brain Tumours & Brain Cancer?

Brain tumours are abnormal growths of cells within the brain. These tumours can disrupt normal brain function by invading and destroying healthy tissue. Unlike normal cells, which grow and divide in a controlled manner, tumour cells grow uncontrollably. This unregulated growth can lead to the formation of masses or lumps known as tumours.

Types of Brain Tumours

Brain tumours are broadly classified into two categories:

Benign Tumours

These are non-cancerous tumours that grow slowly and usually remain confined to one area of the brain. Although benign tumours are less aggressive than malignant ones, they can still cause significant harm by compressing brain tissue and disrupting normal brain function. The impact of a benign tumour largely depends on its size and location.

Malignant Tumours

These are cancerous tumours that grow rapidly and aggressively. Malignant tumours have the ability to invade and destroy nearby brain tissue. Malignant brain tumours are life-threatening and require prompt and aggressive treatment.

Understanding Benign and Malignant Brain Tumours

Characteristics of Benign Brain Tumours

Benign brain tumours, while non-cancerous, can still be dangerous due to their potential to grow and compress surrounding brain tissue. These tumours do not spread to other parts of the body, but their growth can lead to serious complications depending on their location in the brain.

Slow Growth: Benign tumours grow slowly, which means that symptoms may develop gradually over time. This slow progression can make it difficult to detect these tumours early, as the symptoms can be subtle and easily overlooked.

Localised Impact: Since benign tumours do not metastasise, their impact is usually localised to the area of the brain where they develop. However, as they grow, they can cause increased pressure within the skull, leading to symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and neurological deficits.

Treatment and Prognosis: Treatment for benign tumours often involves surgical removal, especially if the tumour is causing symptoms or growing. Small tutors that doesn’t cause significant compression can be safely treated with NON SURGICAL options such as GAMMA KNIFE radiotherapy.

The prognosis for patients with benign brain tumours is generally favourable, especially if the tumour is completely removed.

Patients with benign tumours that have been completely removed typically have a favourable prognosis. In most cases, the tumour does not return, and the patient can return to normal activities.

Characteristics of Malignant Brain Tumours

Malignant brain tumours, or brain cancer, are more aggressive and dangerous than benign tumours. These tumours can grow rapidly and invade surrounding brain tissue, making them difficult to treat.

Aggressive Growth: Malignant tumours grow quickly and can cause significant damage to the brain in a short period of time. They are also more likely to spread to other parts of the brain and cause significant amount of brain swelling making them a more serious threat to health.

Invasion and Metastasis: Malignant tumours can invade nearby brain tissue, disrupting normal brain function.

Treatment Challenges: Treating malignant brain tumours is challenging due to their aggressive nature and tendency to grow & spread. Treatment often involves a combination of surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy.

The prognosis for malignant brain tumours depends on various factors, including the tumour’s grade, the extent of its spread, and the patient’s response to treatment. Some patients achieve long-term remission, while others may require ongoing treatment to manage the disease.

Types of Brain Tumours

Brain tumours are classified into several types based on their origin and behaviour. Understanding these types is crucial for determining the most appropriate treatment approach.

Primary Brain Tumours

Primary brain tumours originate within the brain itself. They can be either benign or malignant, and they arise from the various cells that make up the brain and its supporting structures.

Gliomas

Gliomas are the most common type of primary brain tumour, accounting for about 80% of all brain tumours. They originate from glial cells, which are the supportive cells in the brain. Gliomas can be further classified into several subtypes, including astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, and ependymomas.

Meningiomas

Meningiomas are tumours that arise from the meninges, the protective membranes that surround the brain and spinal cord. Meningiomas are typically benign, but they can still cause significant problems when grow large enough to compress the brain or spinal cord.

Pituitary Adenomas

These are benign tumours develop in the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain that regulates hormones. Pituitary adenomas are usually benign and can often be treated with surgery or medication.

Medulloblastomas

Medulloblastomas are malignant brain tumours that originate in the cerebellum, the part of the brain responsible for coordinating movement. These tumours are more common in children and can spread to other parts of the brain or spinal cord.

Secondary Brain Tumours

Secondary brain tumours, also known as metastatic brain tumours, originate in other parts of the body and spread to the brain. These tumours are always malignant and are more common than primary brain tumours.

Lung Cancer

The most common source of secondary brain tumours is lung cancer. Lung cancer cells can travel through the bloodstream and form tumours in the brain, a process known as brain metastasis.

Breast Cancer

Breast cancer is another common cause of secondary brain tumours. Like lung cancer, breast cancer can spread to the brain and form metastatic tumours.

Melanoma

Melanoma, a type of skin cancer, can also metastasise to the brain. Metastatic brain tumours from melanoma are often aggressive and difficult to treat.

Colorectal Cancer

Colorectal cancer can spread to the brain, although this is less common than metastasis from lung, breast, or melanoma cancers.

Symptoms of Brain Tumours

Recognising the symptoms of brain tumours is critical for early diagnosis and treatment. However, the symptoms of brain tumours can vary widely depending on the size, location, and type of tumour.

Common Brain Tumour Symptoms

• Headaches: Persistent headaches that worsen over time, especially in the morning or after waking up, can be a sign of a brain tumour. Headaches associated with brain tumours are often accompanied by nausea and vomiting.

• Seizures: Seizures are one of the most common symptoms of brain tumours, particularly malignant tumours. A seizure occurs when there is abnormal electrical activity in the brain, which can be triggered by a tumour pressing on or irritating brain tissue.

• Vision Problems: Blurred or double vision, visual field loss, or difficulty focusing can indicate a brain tumour, especially if these symptoms worsen over time.

• Weakness or Numbness: Gradual weakness or numbness in the limbs, particularly on one side of the body, can be a sign of a brain tumour affecting the motor areas of the brain.

• Cognitive Changes: Brain tumours can cause changes in cognitive function, such as memory loss, difficulty concentrating, and confusion. These changes can be subtle and may develop slowly.

• Personality or Behavioural Changes: Tumours in the frontal lobe can lead to changes in personality, behaviour, and mood. Patients may become more irritable, aggressive, or withdrawn.

• Speech Difficulties: Tumours affecting the language centres of the brain can cause speech difficulties, including slurred speech, difficulty finding words, or changes in speech patterns.

• Balance and Coordination Problems: Tumours in the cerebellum, the part of the brain that controls balance and coordination, can cause difficulty walking, unsteadiness, and clumsiness.

• Hearing Loss: Tumours near the auditory nerves can cause hearing loss, ringing in the ears (tinnitus), or difficulty understanding speech.

• Nausea and Vomiting: Persistent nausea and vomiting, particularly in the morning, can be related to increased pressure within the skull caused by a brain tumour.

Symptoms of Specific Brain Tumours

Certain symptoms may be associated with specific types of brain tumours, depending on their location within the brain:

• Frontal Lobe Tumours: These tumours can cause changes in personality, behaviour, and decision-making abilities. Patients may also experience difficulty with planning and organising tasks.

• Temporal Lobe Tumours: Tumours in the temporal lobe can lead to memory loss, language difficulties, and emotional disturbances.

• Parietal Lobe Tumours: These tumours can cause problems with spatial awareness, such as difficulty recognising objects or navigating familiar environments.

• Occipital Lobe Tumours: Tumours in the occipital lobe, which processes visual information, can cause visual disturbances and loss of vision in one or both eyes.

• Cerebellar Tumours: Tumours in the cerebellum can cause coordination problems, difficulty walking, and unsteady movements.

• Brainstem Tumours: These tumours can affect basic functions such as breathing, heart rate, and blood pressure. Patients may also experience difficulty swallowing, facial weakness, and double vision.

Causes of Brain Tumours

The exact causes of brain tumours remain largely unknown. Unlike other types of cancer, such as lung or breast cancer, brain tumours do not have well-defined risk factors. However, some factors have been identified that may increase the risk of developing a brain tumour.

Genetic Factors

While most brain tumours occur sporadically, a small percentage are associated with genetic conditions. Some hereditary syndromes that increase the risk of brain tumours include:

• Neurofibromatosis Type 1 and Type 2 (NF1 and NF2): These genetic disorders increase the risk of developing tumours in the nervous system, including brain tumours.

• Li-Fraumeni Syndrome: This rare genetic condition is associated with an increased risk of several types of cancer, including brain tumours.

• Von Hippel-Lindau Disease: This genetic disorder increases the risk of developing tumours in various organs, including the brain.

• Tuberous Sclerosis Complex (TSC): This genetic condition causes benign tumours to grow in multiple organs, including the brain.

Environmental Factors

Some environmental factors have been suggested as potential causes of brain tumours, although the evidence is not conclusive:

• Radiation Exposure: Exposure to ionising radiation, such as from previous cancer treatment, has been linked to an increased risk of brain tumours. People who have undergone radiation therapy to the head for other cancers may be at a higher risk.

• Chemical Exposure: Some studies have suggested that exposure to certain chemicals, such as those found in industrial settings, may increase the risk of brain tumours. However, the evidence is not strong enough to establish a clear link.

Other Risk Factors

• Age: Brain tumours can occur at any age, but they are more common in older adults. However, certain types of brain tumours, such as medulloblastomas, are more common in children.

• Gender: Some types of brain tumours are more common in men, while others, such as meningiomas, are more common in women.

• Family History: While most brain tumours are not inherited, having a family history of brain tumours or other cancers may increase the risk.

• Immune System Disorders: People with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, may have an increased risk of developing certain types of brain tumours, such as primary central nervous system lymphoma.

Brain Tumour Investigations & Diagnosis

Early diagnosis of brain tumours is crucial for improving outcomes. If you experience persistent or concerning symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice. The diagnostic process for brain tumours typically involves several steps.

Initial Evaluation

Your healthcare provider will begin by taking a detailed medical history and performing a physical examination. They will ask about your symptoms, their duration, and any potential risk factors. During the physical examination, your doctor may perform a neurological exam to assess your reflexes, muscle strength, coordination, and sensory function.

Imaging Studies

Imaging studies are essential for diagnosing brain tumours. The most commonly used imaging techniques include:

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): MRI is the gold standard for diagnosing brain tumours. It provides detailed images of the brain’s structure, allowing doctors to identify the size, location, and characteristics of the tumour. MRI can also help distinguish between benign and malignant tumours.

• Computed Tomography (CT) Scan: A CT scan uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the brain. While it is less detailed than an MRI, a CT scan can be useful in emergency situations or when MRI is not available.

• Positron Emission Tomography (PET) Scan: A PET scan involves injecting a small amount of radioactive material into the bloodstream. The scan detects areas of increased metabolic activity, which can indicate the presence of a tumour. PET scans are often used in combination with MRI or CT scans to provide additional information about the tumour’s behaviour.

• Angiography: In some cases, a cerebral angiogram may be performed to visualise the blood vessels in the brain. This test can help identify tumours that are supplied by abnormal blood vessels.

Biopsy

If imaging studies suggest the presence of a brain tumour, a biopsy may be performed to obtain a sample of the tumour tissue. This sample is then examined under a microscope to determine the type of tumour and its grade (how aggressive it is). There are several types of biopsies that may be used:

• Stereotactic Needle Biopsy: This minimally invasive procedure involves inserting a thin needle into the brain to remove a small sample of the tumour. The procedure is guided by imaging techniques, such as MRI or CT, to ensure precise targeting.

• Open Biopsy (Craniotomy): In some cases, a more invasive approach may be needed. During a craniotomy, the surgeon removes a portion of the skull to access the tumour and obtain a larger tissue sample. This procedure may also be used to remove the tumour entirely if it is deemed operable.

Molecular Testing

Advances in molecular biology have led to the development of tests that can analyse the genetic and molecular characteristics of brain tumours. These tests can provide valuable information about the tumour’s behaviour and help guide treatment decisions. For example, certain mutations or genetic alterations may make a tumour more responsive to targeted therapies or immunotherapy.

Brain Tumour Treatment Options

The treatment of brain tumours depends on several factors, including the type, size, location, and grade of the tumour, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. Treatment may involve one or a combination of the following approaches:

Surgery

Surgery is often the first-line treatment for brain tumours, especially if the tumour is accessible and can be safely removed. The goals of surgery are to remove as much of the tumour as possible, relieve pressure on the brain, and obtain tissue for diagnosis.

• Craniotomy: This is the most common surgical procedure for brain tumours. It involves removing a portion of the skull to access the tumour. After the tumour is removed, the skull is replaced, and the incision is closed.

• Endoscopic Surgery: In some cases, minimally invasive techniques, such as endoscopic surgery, may be used to remove tumours located in hard-to-reach areas of the brain. This approach involves using a small camera and specialised instruments to remove the tumour through a small incision.

• Awake Brain Surgery: For tumours located near critical areas of the brain that control speech, movement, or other functions, awake brain surgery may be performed. During this procedure, the patient is awake and responsive, allowing the surgeon to monitor brain function and avoid damaging important areas.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses high-energy rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink tumours. It may be used as a primary treatment for inoperable tumours, as an adjunct to surgery, or to treat residual tumour cells after surgery.

• Gamma Knife Surgery is a specialised form of radiotherapy specifically designed for brain tumours. It is characterised by high precision delivery of single high dose radiation source to the tumor. This results in good tumor destruction and minimal damage to surrounding brain regions as opposed to conventional radiotherapy methods

• Brachytherapy: This approach involves placing radioactive material directly into or near the tumour. Brachytherapy is less commonly used for brain tumours but may be considered in certain cases.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from dividing. It is often used in combination with surgery and radiotherapy for the treatment of malignant brain tumours.

• Oral Chemotherapy: Some chemotherapy drugs can be taken orally in pill form. This is a convenient option for patients and may be used as part of a long-term treatment plan.

• Intravenous Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy drugs are often given intravenously (through a vein) to reach the tumour via the bloodstream. Treatment is typically administered in cycles, with periods of rest in between to allow the body to recover.

• Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapies are drugs that specifically target genetic mutations or molecular pathways that drive tumour growth. These treatments are designed to be more precise and cause fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

Immunotherapy

Immunotherapy is an emerging treatment that harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer. While still in the early stages of development for brain tumours, immunotherapy has shown promise in clinical trials.

• Checkpoint Inhibitors: These drugs block proteins that prevent the immune system from attacking cancer cells. By inhibiting these checkpoints, the immune system can recognise and destroy tumour cells more effectively.

• Cancer Vaccines: Cancer vaccines are designed to stimulate the immune system to target specific proteins found on tumour cells. While still experimental, cancer vaccines may offer a new avenue for treating brain tumours in the future.

• Adoptive Cell Transfer: This approach involves collecting and modifying a patient’s immune cells to enhance their ability to attack tumour cells. The modified cells are then infused back into the patient to help fight the tumour.

Gamma Knife Surgery

Gamma Knife surgery is a non-invasive treatment option for brain tumours that delivers highly focused beams of radiation to the tumour. Despite its name, Gamma Knife surgery does not involve any actual cutting. Instead, it uses a machine to deliver precise radiation to the tumour, causing minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue.

Indications: Gamma Knife surgery is typically used for small tumours (less than 3 cm in size) and those located in areas of the brain that are difficult to access surgically. It is also used to treat metastatic brain tumours and tumours that have recurred after previous treatment.

Procedure: During the procedure, the patient wears a specialised head frame to keep the head still. The Gamma Knife machine then delivers multiple beams of radiation to the tumour, with each beam converging on the tumour from different angles. The procedure is usually completed in one session, and patients can often go home the same day.

Outcomes: Gamma Knife surgery has a high success rate for controlling tumour growth, particularly for benign tumours and small metastatic lesions. Patients typically experience fewer side effects compared to traditional radiotherapy, and the recovery time is shorter.

Clinical Trials

Participation in clinical trials may be an option for patients with brain tumours, especially those with tumours that are difficult to treat with standard therapies. Clinical trials offer access to new and experimental treatments that are not yet widely available.

Benefits: Clinical trials can provide patients with access to cutting-edge therapies that may offer better outcomes than standard treatments. They also contribute to the advancement of medical knowledge and the development of new treatments for future patients.

Considerations: Participation in a clinical trial may involve additional risks, as the treatments being studied are often experimental and may not have been fully tested for safety and efficacy. Patients should discuss the potential benefits and risks with their healthcare team before deciding to enrol in a clinical trial.

Brain Tumour Surgery – Importance & Risks

Surgical removal of a brain tumour is often a critical step in the treatment process, particularly for tumours that are accessible and causing symptoms. Surgery not only alleviates symptoms caused by the tumour’s pressure on the brain but also improves the effectiveness of subsequent treatments such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy.

Goals of Brain Tumour Surgery

The primary goals of brain tumour surgery are:

• Tumour Removal: The main objective is to remove all or as much of the tumour as possible while preserving normal brain function. In some cases, the entire tumour can be removed, while in others, a portion of the tumour may need to be left behind to avoid damaging critical brain structures.

• Symptom Relief: Removing the tumour can relieve symptoms such as headaches, seizures, and neurological deficits caused by the tumour’s pressure on the brain.

• Tissue Diagnosis: Surgery provides tissue samples that are essential for diagnosing the type and grade of the tumour. This information guides the subsequent treatment plan.

• Improving Treatment Response: Reducing the tumour’s size through surgery can enhance the effectiveness of other treatments, such as radiotherapy and chemotherapy, by making it easier for these therapies to target the remaining tumour cells.

Minimally Invasive Techniques

Minimally invasive surgical techniques have become increasingly popular in the treatment of brain tumours. These techniques aim to minimise damage to healthy brain tissue, reduce recovery time, and lower the risk of complications.

• Endoscopic Surgery: Endoscopic surgery involves the use of a thin, flexible tube with a camera and specialised instruments to remove tumours through small incisions. This approach is particularly useful for tumours located in hard-to-reach areas, such as the ventricles (fluid-filled spaces) of the brain.

• Neuronavigation: Neuronavigation is a computer-assisted technology that allows surgeons to create a 3D map of the brain based on preoperative imaging. This map guides the surgeon during the procedure, helping to avoid critical structures and ensuring precise tumour removal.

• Intraoperative MRI: In some cases, an MRI scanner is used during surgery to provide real-time images of the brain. This allows the surgeon to assess the extent of tumour removal and make adjustments as needed.

Risks of Brain Surgery

Brain surgery, like any surgical procedure, carries risks. However, advances in surgical techniques and technology have significantly reduced these risks.

• Swelling (Edema): Surgery can cause swelling in the brain, which may lead to temporary neurological symptoms. Steroid medications are often used to reduce swelling and minimise these effects.

• Bleeding (Haemorrhage): Bleeding can occur during or after surgery. While significant bleeding is uncommon, it may require additional treatment, such as a blood transfusion or further surgery.

• Infection: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection. Surgeons take precautions to minimise this risk, and antibiotics are often administered before and after surgery.

• Seizures: Some patients may experience seizures after brain surgery. Anti-seizure medications are often prescribed to prevent or manage this complication.

• Neurological Deficits: Depending on the tumour’s location, surgery may result in temporary or permanent neurological deficits, such as weakness, numbness, or speech difficulties. The risk of these deficits depends on the tumour’s proximity to critical areas of the brain.

Brain Tumour Recovery Process

Recovery from brain tumour surgery varies depending on the individual patient, the type and location of the tumour, and the extent of the surgery. The recovery process typically involves a combination of medical care, rehabilitation, and follow-up appointments.

Hospital Stay

After brain surgery, patients are usually monitored in the intensive care unit (ICU) for the first 24 to 48 hours. During this time, the healthcare team closely monitors the patient’s neurological function, vital signs, and overall condition. Most patients can expect to stay in the hospital for about five to seven days, depending on their recovery progress.

Physical Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a crucial component of the recovery process. Depending on the tumour’s location and the surgery’s impact, patients may require physical, occupational, or speech therapy to regain strength, mobility, and cognitive function.

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy focuses on improving strength, balance, and coordination. It is especially important for patients who have experienced weakness or paralysis as a result of the tumour or surgery.

• Occupational Therapy: Occupational therapy helps patients regain the ability to perform daily activities, such as dressing, eating, and bathing. It also addresses any challenges related to fine motor skills, such as writing or buttoning clothes.

• Speech Therapy: Speech therapy may be necessary for patients who experience speech or language difficulties after surgery. Therapy sessions focus on improving communication skills, such as articulation, fluency, and comprehension.

Cognitive Rehabilitation

Cognitive rehabilitation is designed to help patients regain cognitive functions that may have been affected by the tumour or surgery. This type of therapy focuses on memory, attention, problem-solving, and executive function.

• Memory Exercises: Therapists work with patients on exercises and strategies to improve memory, such as using mnemonic devices, creating routines, and keeping a diary.

• Attention Training: Patients may undergo exercises to improve their ability to focus and maintain attention on tasks.

• Problem-Solving Skills: Cognitive rehabilitation may also involve exercises to enhance problem-solving and decision-making abilities, helping patients return to daily life and work.

Follow-Up Care

Follow-up care is essential for monitoring the patient’s recovery and detecting any signs of tumour recurrence. Patients typically have follow-up appointments with their neurosurgeon and oncologist to review MRI scans, assess neurological function, and adjust treatment plans as needed.

• Imaging Studies: Regular MRI scans are usually performed at intervals (e.g., every three to six months) to monitor for tumour recurrence or regrowth. These scans help guide further treatment decisions and ensure early intervention if necessary.

• Medication Management: Patients may be prescribed medications to manage symptoms, such as anti-seizure drugs, steroids to reduce swelling, or pain relievers. The healthcare team will adjust medication dosages based on the patient’s progress.

• Lifestyle Adjustments: Patients may need to make lifestyle adjustments to support their recovery and overall health. This can include adopting a healthy diet, staying physically active, avoiding alcohol and tobacco, and managing stress.

Long-Term Outlook

The long-term outlook for patients with brain tumours varies depending on the type of tumour, its location, and the treatment received.

Brain Tumour Expected Outcomes (Prognosis)

The prognosis for patients with brain tumours has improved significantly in recent years, thanks to advances in diagnostic techniques, surgical methods, and treatment options. While the outlook varies depending on the type of tumour and individual patient factors, there is reason for optimism.

Benign Tumour Prognosis

Patients with benign tumours that have been completely removed typically have a favourable prognosis. In most cases, the tumour does not return, and the patient can return to normal activities.

Malignant Tumour Prognosis

The prognosis for malignant brain tumours depends on various factors, including the tumour’s grade, the extent of its spread, and the patient’s response to treatment. Some patients achieve long-term remission, while others may require ongoing treatment to manage the disease.

Prognostic Factors

Several factors influence the prognosis for patients with brain tumours:

• Tumour Type: Benign tumours generally have a better prognosis than malignant tumours. Among malignant tumours, certain types, such as glioblastoma, are more aggressive and have a poorer prognosis.

• Tumour Location: The tumour’s location within the brain can impact the prognosis. Tumours in areas that control critical functions, such as speech or movement, may be more difficult to treat without causing significant neurological deficits.

• Tumour Size: Larger tumours may be more challenging to remove completely and may be associated with a higher risk of recurrence.

• Age: Younger patients generally have a better prognosis, as they are more likely to tolerate aggressive treatments and recover from surgery.

• Overall Health: Patients with good overall health and no other serious medical conditions are more likely to have a favourable outcome.

Brain Tumour Survival Rates

Survival rates for brain tumours vary widely depending on the type and grade of the tumour.

• Low-Grade Gliomas: Patients with low-grade gliomas, which are slow-growing tumours, may have a survival rate of 10 years or more. However, these tumours can sometimes progress to higher-grade, more aggressive forms.

• High-Grade Gliomas: High-grade gliomas, such as glioblastoma, have a poorer prognosis, with median survival times ranging from 12 to 18 months. However, some patients live longer with aggressive treatment and new therapies.

• Meningiomas: The prognosis for meningiomas, which are typically benign, is generally excellent, with a high rate of long-term survival. However, some meningiomas can recur, particularly if they are not completely removed.

Advances in Brain Tumour Treatment

Recent advances in treatment have led to improved outcomes for patients with brain tumours:

• Targeted Therapies: Targeted therapies, which attack specific genetic mutations in tumour cells, have shown promise in treating certain types of brain tumours. These therapies are often associated with fewer side effects than traditional chemotherapy.

• Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy, which harnesses the body’s immune system to fight cancer, is an emerging area of research for brain tumours. Clinical trials are ongoing to determine the effectiveness of these treatments.

• Minimally Invasive Surgery: Advances in surgical techniques, such as minimally invasive and image-guided surgery, have reduced the risks associated with brain tumour removal and improved patient outcomes.

• Gamma Knife Surgery: Gamma Knife surgery, a form of stereotactic radiosurgery, has become an important treatment option for small, inoperable tumours and recurrent tumours.

Conclusion on Brain Tumour & Brain Cancers in Malaysia

Brain tumours and brain cancer are complex and challenging conditions, but advances in medical science have improved the diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis for many patients. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and personalised treatment plans are key to achieving the best possible outcomes.

If you or a loved one experience any symptoms of a brain tumour, it is important to seek medical advice promptly. In Malaysia, a range of treatment options are available, offering hope and a better quality of life for patients with brain tumours.

Make an appointment with Dr Azman HERE