Pathologists classify tumors according to the type of cell from which they arise, the location within the brain or spinal cord, the appearance of tumor cells and the rate at which they grow. There are three major types of gliomas, called astrocytomas, ependymomas and oligodenrogliomas. Astrocytomas, a type of glioma, arise from a particular star-shaped type of glial cell called an astrocyte. The location of the tumor may also be part of the name, as in optic pathway gliomas, which occur in the optic nerve, or cerebellar astrocytomas, which occur in the cerebellum. Researchers are also beginning to find that information on the genetic profile of a tumor is starting to help us categorize tumors and understand their origin and possibly predict their behavior.
There are many different kinds of tumors, and the names can be confusing - the same tumor may even be called by different names occasionally. The most important things to know are where the tumor is located - how close it is to the seats of critical brain functions - how fast it is expected to grow - how likely it is to spread, and how susceptible it may be to different kinds of treatments.
We are experienced in the treatment of all brain tumors such as:
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