An Unkind "Benign" Tumour

Tumours that start in the brain are called primary brain tumours. Some types of brain tumours are benign and some are malignant.

A benign tumour is made of slow-growing cells and is unlikely to spread. However, a benign tumour may cause problems because it takes up space inside the skull. It may press on the brain or important nerves that come out of the brain (called cranial nerves). The pressure created by the tumour disrupts the normal function and blood flow of these structures. It may raise the pressure in the skull and cause headaches and/or nausea. It is common for benign brain tumours to be treated successfully.

A tumour in the spinal cord will affect the spinal cord by pressing on it. This may stop the flow of messages along the nerves between the brain and body and can affect the control of some parts of the body. Most commonly this can cause difficulty with using the arms or legs or difficulty controlling the bladder or bowel. There may also be changes to the feeling in the skin.

The most common type of malignant brain and spinal tumour is a glioma. Gliomas grow from the supporting cells of the brain.

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