Brain tumor FAQ

A brain tumor is a mass of abnormal cells that forms in or around the brain. Some brain tumors are benign (non-cancerous), while others are malignant (cancerous). Tumors are classified as primary or secondary brain tumors:

• Primary brain tumors start in the brain or its surrounding tissues.
• Secondary brain tumors (also called metastatic) spread to the brain from cancers in other parts of the body, such as the lung or breast.

Understanding the difference between primary vs. secondary brain tumors is important, as it affects your individual treatment and prognosis.

The first signs of a brain tumor may include frequent or prolonged headaches, vision changes, nausea, dizziness, memory issues, or personality changes. Symptoms depend on the tumor’s size and location in the brain.

If you’re experiencing unexplained symptoms like persistent headaches, balance problems, or memory changes, talk to your doctor. Imaging tests such as an MRI or CT scan are needed to diagnose a brain tumor.

Yes, some brain tumors – especially slow-growing ones – can be asymptomatic and only discovered during imaging for another issue.

Most brain tumors are not inherited. However, certain genetic conditions can increase the risk. Your doctor may recommend genetic testing if there is a strong family history or specific tumor type.

Brain tumor diagnosis often starts with a neurological exam and brain imaging (like MRI or CT scan). A biopsy may be performed to confirm the tumor type and determine the best treatment approach.

Brain tumors are grouped as primary (start in the brain) or secondary (spread from other cancers).

• Primary brain tumors include:
  • Glioblastoma (GBM)
  • Meningioma
  • Glioma (note: a GBM is a type of glioma)
• Secondary brain tumors (metastatic) come from cancers like:
  • Lung cancer
  • Breast cancer
  • Melanoma (skin cancer)
  • Renal cell carcinoma

Learn more about brain tumor types.

The difference between a brain tumor and brain cancer is that all brain cancers are tumors, but not all brain tumors are cancerous. A benign tumor (non-cancerous) grows slowly and may not spread, while malignant (cancerous) tumors grow aggressively and can invade healthy tissue.

Survival rates for brain tumors vary greatly by tumor type, location, and grade. For example, glioblastoma has a different survival rate than meningioma. Your doctor can provide personalized statistics based on your diagnosis.

It’s important to know that brain tumor treatment is not one-size-fits-all. Treatment options vary based on the tumor’s type, location, grade, and your overall health. Not every treatment is right for every patient, so be sure to talk with your doctor or care team to explore the best plan for your individual needs.

Brain tumor treatments may include:

• Surgery
• Radiation therapy (such as GammaTile^®*)
• Chemotherapy
• Immunotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Clinical trials (learn about brain tumor clinical trials)

Brain tumor treatment plans are personalized based on your tumor type, location, and health needs. Learn more about management for brain tumors.

Yes, most doctors often encourage patients to be active participants in their brain tumor care. Asking questions, sharing your preferences, and understanding your options can help you and your care team make decisions together. Being your own advocate – or having a loved one advocate with you – can lead to a more personalized treatment experience that ensures your voice is heard and your concerns are addressed.

During brain tumor surgery, a neurosurgeon removes as much of the tumor as safely possible. The procedure is called a craniotomy, where a small section of the skull is temporarily removed to access the brain. Depending on the tumor’s size and location, the goal may be full removal or partial removal to relieve pressure and improve symptoms. In some cases, doctors may also place GammaTile at the time of surgery to begin radiation treatment immediately, targeting any remaining tumor cells.¹

After surgery, the remaining tumor cells can begin to grow again –sometimes at a rapid rate. Starting treatment soon after surgery helps target those cells while the tumor is at its weakest, increasing the chances of control. In some cases, delays in starting radiation can affect outcomes.

Traditional radiation therapy often starts 2–8 weeks after surgery to allow your brain to heal. However, during that time, remaining tumor cells can continue to grow. Options like GammaTile provide immediate radiation after surgery, helping treat the tumor bed right away – when it matters most.¹

While every case is unique, beginning radiation treatment immediately after brain tumor surgery may help prevent rapid tumor regrowth. The 2-8 weeks following surgery is when the tumor burden is at its lowest, which is a critical time to start radiation treatment.

Tumor burden refers to the amount of tumor left in the brain. After surgery, it’s often at its lowest point – making it an ideal time to start radiation treatment. The sooner therapy begins, the better the chances are of controlling any remaining tumor cells before they grow or spread.

Yes, some brain tumors – especially aggressive types – can return after treatment. These are called recurrent brain tumors, and treatment options may differ from those used initially due to the lack of universally designed standard of care for recurrent brain tumors.

Learn more about recurrent brain tumors.

After brain tumor treatment, you may continue with monitoring (scans), rehabilitation, and follow-up care. Some patients experience side effects or changes in function that can be managed with supportive therapies.

Yes, some brain tumor treatments can limit or prevent future treatment options. That’s why it is important to ask your doctor how each treatment may impact future care. Understanding your long-term options now can help you make more informed decisions today.

Yes, there are clinical trials for brain tumors. Clinical trials test new treatments, therapies, or approaches that may not be widely available yet. These studies can offer access to promising options for both newly diagnosed and recurrent brain tumors. Ask your doctor if a clinical trial may be right for your type of tumor and treatment goals.

Learn more about GammaTile Clinical Trials for brain tumors.

Your care team, support groups, patient forums, financial resources, and advocacy organizations for brain tumors can help you connect with others and access emotional and practical support.

You can also download our Patient Discussion Guide to help you ask the right questions, understand your diagnosis, and explore your treatment options with your care team. Use it during appointments to feel more confident, prepared, and in control of your care.