Nervous system tumors comprise a diverse group of conditions that may affect the brain, spinal cord, spine, the membranes surrounding these structures and the skull base.
Some tumors originate within the nervous system itself. Others develop in different parts of the body and spread to the brain or spine.
Their behavior, symptoms and treatment options vary depending on the type of tumor, its location and size, and the patient’s clinical condition.
Symptoms depend on the area affected.
Brain tumors may cause persistent headaches, seizures, muscle weakness, speech changes, vision loss, balance problems, cognitive difficulties or behavioral changes.
Tumors affecting the spine or spinal cord may cause persistent pain, worsening pain at night, tingling, loss of sensation, weakness in the arms or legs and difficulty walking.
Lesions located at the skull base may cause visual changes, hearing loss, dizziness, facial pain, difficulty swallowing or impairment of the cranial nerves.
These symptoms may also be associated with other conditions. A medical evaluation is necessary to determine their cause.
The evaluation begins with an analysis of the patient’s symptoms, medical history and neurological examination.
Magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography and other tests may be used to assess the location and characteristics of the lesion.
In certain situations, confirming the diagnosis may require the analysis of tissue obtained through surgery or biopsy.
Treatment planning must consider not only the tumor itself, but also its proximity to areas responsible for speech, movement, vision, memory and other neurological functions.
Treatment may involve monitoring through periodic imaging, surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or other therapies determined according to the diagnosis.
When surgery is indicated, the procedure is carefully planned to reach the lesion with precision while preserving nearby neurological structures whenever possible.
In many cases, care requires collaboration among Neurosurgery, Medical Oncology, Radiation Oncology, Pathology and other specialties.
Not all tumors require immediate surgery. The decision depends on the type of lesion, its behavior and the potential risks and benefits of intervention.
Skull base lesions require special attention because of their proximity to nerves, blood vessels and essential structures.
A detailed evaluation makes it possible to understand the available options and establish a treatment plan that is compatible with the anatomy of the lesion and the patient’s individual needs.
Contact Neuro & Coluna Rio to schedule a specialized evaluation or request a second opinion.
