The critical Importance of Early Brain Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment
Brain tumors, while less prevalent than some other cancers, demand prompt attention due to their potential impact on vital neurological functions. According to Prof. Dr. Hakan Emmez,early diagnosis is paramount to prosperous treatment outcomes. He emphasizes that even non-cancerous tumors can cause significant neurological problems depending on their location, making timely consultation with a neurosurgeon crucial. Approximately 30-40 individuals per 100,000 are diagnosed with brain tumors annually, highlighting the importance of awareness and proactive healthcare.
Brain tumors are categorized as either primary – originating directly within the brain – or secondary (metastatic), resulting from cancer spreading from other parts of the body. Prof. Dr. Emmez cautions that even benign tumors can exert pressure on brain tissue, leading to serious neurological deficits.While the precise cause remains unknown, potential contributing factors include genetic predisposition and exposure to radiation.Individuals with specific genetic syndromes, like neurofibromatosis types 1 and 2 or Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and those with a history of high-dose radiation therapy face an elevated risk.
recognizing potential symptoms is key to early detection. Prof. Dr. Emmez notes that symptoms vary based on tumor location but can include morning headaches, nausea, vomiting, balance issues, visual disturbances, seizures, and speech difficulties. Diagnosis typically begins with a neurological examination followed by advanced imaging. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) provides detailed visualization of the tumor’s size, location, and relationship to surrounding tissues, and a biopsy may be performed to confirm the tumor type and grade.
Treatment of brain tumors requires a extensive, multidisciplinary approach. Prof. Dr. Emmez stresses that treatment plans – encompassing surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and ongoing monitoring – are tailored to each individual.This collaborative effort involves specialists from brain surgery, radiation oncology, medical oncology, neurology, and endocrinology. Modern surgical techniques, utilizing neuronavigation, neuromonitoring, and fluorescence technologies, allow for maximal tumor removal while minimizing damage to healthy brain tissue. importantly, not all brain tumors are malignant, and some can be monitored over extended periods.
“Thanks to developing medical technologies, diagnosis and treatment can now be done in a much safer, effective and personalized way,” Prof.Dr. Emmez states. He concludes with a vital message: “When symptoms are noticed, the time is right. Consulting a specialist before losing your life greatly reduces the risk of permanent damage.”
