An abnormal cell development in the brain is called a brain tumor. The brain’s anatomy is extremely intricate, with several components in charge of various nervous system activities. Any portion of the brain or skull, including the protective lining, the brainstem, the sinuses, the nasal cavity, the bottom of the brain (skull base), and many other places, can develop brain tumors. Depending on the tissue from which they originate, more than 120 different forms of tumors can form in the brain.
Etiology
Researchers have determined that the spread of other cancers is the cause of secondary brain tumors. The exact causes of primary brain tumors are still unknown, but scientists are aware of how the cancer develops and have found some potential contributing factors.
In most cases, genetic alterations in healthy brain cells cause primary brain cancer. The mutations stop the cells from dying when their natural life cycle is finished, leading them to proliferate and divide far more quickly than they should. A tumor develops as a result of the renegade cells’ quick accumulation.
Brain Cancer and Its Impact on Women
There are disparities between genders among brain tumor patients. Meningiomas, which are tumors of the central nervous system’s meningeal layers, are the most prominent kind of primary brain tumor. These tumors are more prevalent in women, who can express both progesterone (about 70%) and estrogen (30%) receptors. Meningiomas can grow with hormonal changes such as pregnancy, menstrual cycle alterations, menopause, and exogenous hormone use (fertility drugs).
Risk Factors
Research has identified several risk factors for brain cancer, including ionizing radiation exposure and environmental exposure. Controllable factors include radiation therapy and certain chemicals in pesticides and herbicides. However, most risk factors for brain cancer cannot be controlled, such as age, biological gender, family medical history, and weakened immune systems. These factors can increase the likelihood of developing brain and spinal cord tumors, but not all individuals with these risk factors will develop cancer.
Early Symptoms of Brain Cancer in Females
Among the presenting symptoms are headache, changed mental status, ataxia, nausea or vomiting, weakness, speech impairments, and sensory abnormalities.
Among the presenting signs were motor weakness, ataxia, papilledema, cranial nerve palsies, visual impairments, and speech impairments.
Diagnosis & Evaluation Procedures
The initial evaluation of neuronal or glioneuronal brain tumors involves a detailed history and physical examination. Patients with acute neurological status changes require emergent evaluation of airway status, breathing/oxygenation, and circulatory system. A head CT without contrast is recommended for acute deficits. MRI is the preferred imaging test for these tumors, with advanced techniques like MR spectroscopy and fMRI. EEG is crucial for these patients, and WADA testing is used for surgical planning. Interprofessional discussions are essential for appropriate diagnosis and treatment.
Advances in Brain Cancer Treatment for Women
Neuronal and glioneuronal tumors can be identified through examination and imaging. Treatment for seizures involves anti-epileptic medications, but these tumors often require surgical intervention. Surgical resection is the preferred treatment for symptomatic tumors, while gross total resection is crucial for higher-grade lesions. Modern techniques like tubular retractor systems and laser interstitial thermal therapy may be used. Adjuvant radiation therapy may be necessary for higher-grade tumors.
Take-home message
Neuronal and glioneuronal brain tumors are diverse, requiring interprofessional input for effective evaluation and treatment. This includes epilepsy evaluation, emergency medical personnel, and postoperative care. Specialty training in neurological evaluation is crucial for prompt recognition and action. Increased awareness among healthcare providers can facilitate early recognition and effective care for these patients, minimizing morbidity and mortality.
Related: How to Detect Brain Tumor at Home
References:
Mezzacappa, F. M., & Thorell, W. (2022). Neuronal brain tumors. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK576406/
Anic, G. M., Madden, M. H., Nabors, L. B., Olson, J. J., LaRocca, R. V., Thompson, Z. J., Pamnani, S. J., Forsyth, P. A., Thompson, R. C., & Egan, K. M. (2014). Reproductive factors and risk of primary brain tumors in women. Journal of neuro-oncology, 118(2), 297–304. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11060-014-1427-0
Snyder, H., Robinson, K., Shah, D., Brennan, R., & Handrigan, M. (1993). Signs and symptoms of patients with brain tumors presenting to the emergency department. The Journal of Emergency Medicine, 11(3), 253-258. https://doi.org/10.1016/0736-4679(93)90042-6
