A malignant brain neoplasm, also referred to as brain cancer, is a pathological growth of cells in the brain that exhibits aggressive and dangerous behavior. It is a devastating and life-threatening condition that originates within the brain tissue or can spread from other parts of the body, known as metastatic brain cancer.
Characterized by an uncontrollable and abnormal multiplication of cells, these neoplasms infiltrate and damage adjacent healthy brain tissue, disrupting the normal functioning of the brain. They can arise from various cell types within the brain, including glial cells (gliomas), neuronal cells (neuroblastomas), and supportive cells (meningiomas).
The defining feature of a malignant brain neoplasm is its ability to invade surrounding tissue and potentially spread to other parts of the body. This aggressive behavior distinguishes it from benign brain tumors, which are non-cancerous and usually not life-threatening. Malignant brain neoplasms are graded by their level of malignancy and include high-grade gliomas, such as glioblastoma multiforme, which have a poor prognosis due to their rapid growth and resistance to treatment.
Symptoms of a malignant brain neoplasm may vary depending on its location and size but commonly include persistent headaches, seizures, cognitive impairments, personality changes, and focal neurological deficits. Treatment approaches for malignant brain neoplasms often involve a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, tailored to the specific type, grade, and location of the tumor. However, the prognosis for malignant brain neoplasms remains challenging, with a significant impact on patient survival and quality of life.
