Understanding the Two Categories of Brain Tumors

When you hear the words “brain tumor,” you probably assume the worst — cancer. However, not all brain tumors are cancerous, and not all originate in the brain. Some tumors form when cancer cells from other parts of the body migrate to the brain, creating a secondary tumor. Others develop directly in the brain itself.

Brain tumors fall into two major categories: primary and secondary. Primary brain tumors originate within the brain, while secondary brain tumors, also called metastatic brain tumors, spread from cancer elsewhere in the body. 

Regardless of type, any tumor in the brain is severe. The brain is a delicate organ, and even a slow-growing, noncancerous tumor can cause severe problems depending on its location. Once diagnosed, treating a brain tumor requires extreme precision and expertise. 

The process is delicate and must be handled by specialists who thoroughly understand the complexities of the brain and how to remove or control the tumor without causing unnecessary damage. At NeuroSpine Center in Tampa, Florida, Dr. Phillip Henkin, an experienced neurosurgeon, provides world-class care to diagnose and treat brain tumors safely and effectively.

Let’s break down the difference between primary and secondary brain tumors.

What are primary brain tumors?

Primary brain tumors develop from the brain’s cells or surrounding structures, like the meninges (the membranes covering the brain), the pituitary gland, or cranial nerves. These tumors can be benign (noncancerous)or malignant (cancerous).

Benign primary brain tumors

A benign primary brain tumor is noncancerous and doesn’t spread to other parts of the body, but that doesn’t mean it’s harmless. The brain is confined within the skull, so even a noncancerous growth can press on sensitive tissue, causing headaches, vision problems, balance issues, or other neurological symptoms. 

Some common benign brain tumors include meningiomas, which develop from the meninges and are usually slow-growing; pituitary adenomas, which affect hormone production; and acoustic neuromas, which can lead to hearing loss or balance problems.

Malignant primary brain tumors

On the other hand, malignant primary brain tumors are cancerous and tend to grow aggressively, often invading nearby brain tissue. These tumors rarely spread outside the brain, but their location makes them especially dangerous. 

Glioblastomas, the most aggressive type, grow rapidly and are difficult to treat. Other types, such as astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas, vary in severity but must be managed carefully.

Treatment for primary brain tumors depends on their size, location, and type. Some only require monitoring, while others need surgery, radiation, or chemotherapy. Every case is unique, which is why expert care is essential.

What are secondary brain tumors?

Secondary brain tumors are far more common than primary ones. These occur when cancer from another part of the body spreads to the brain. Unlike primary tumors, all metastatic brain tumors are malignant because they originate from an already cancerous site.

Lung cancer is the leading cause of metastatic brain tumors, but breast cancer, melanoma, colon cancer, and kidney cancer can also spread to the brain. Treatment is more complex because these tumors often occur in multiple areas of the brain. A combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy may be needed, depending on the type of cancer involved.

Symptoms of brain tumors

Brain tumor symptoms vary widely based on the tumor’s size, location, and growth rate. Some tumors remain undetected for years, while others cause rapid, noticeable changes. Symptoms may include:

• Persistent headaches that don’t improve with usual treatments
• Seizures, even in individuals with no prior history
• Difficulty speaking, remembering things, or concentrating
• Changes in vision or hearing
• Weakness or numbness in the arms or legs
• Balance and coordination problems

Because these symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, getting a proper diagnosis from a specialist is crucial. If you or a loved one are experiencing concerning neurological symptoms, book a consultation with Dr. Henkin right away.

Facing a brain tumor diagnosis is overwhelming, but in most cases, early diagnosis makes all the difference. At NeuroSpine Center, we provide state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment options to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients. Use our online scheduler to book a consultation with Dr. Henkin, or call NeuroSpine Center at 813-651-3300 today.