Brain Tumor

A mass of abnormally dividing brain cells.  May be primary (originating in the brain) or metastatic (originating outside the brain).  May be benign or malignant.  Symptoms appear gradually with tumor growth, and are dependant on location.  Symptoms include headache, nausea, seizures, numbness, altered vision hearing and speech,memory problems, and personality changes.  Treatment depends on size, type, and location of tumor.  It usually includes surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, gene therapy, or immunotherapy.  Pain medication is given as needed.