Brain tumor

A brain tumor is a growth of cells inside the skull. Some are non-cancerous and some are cancerous. A report that says tumor, lesion, or SOL (space-occupying lesion) is a reason to sit with a neurosurgeon, not a reason to decide from a search result.

People may notice a new kind of headache, seizures, vomiting, weakness on one side, trouble speaking, or a change in vision or balance. None of these signs prove there is a tumor. They are reasons to be examined.

Bring the MRI or CT images and the written report. Treatment can include watching, medicine, a biopsy, surgery, or a referral for radiation or chemotherapy. The plan depends on the type of growth, its size, and the brain areas next to it. Surgery is not offered to every person.