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Brain tumors

Brain diseases

Brain Tumors: Diagnosis & Treatment

Overview
Brain tumors are abnormal growths that develop within the brain tissue or surrounding areas. They can be primary tumors, originating in the brain, or metastatic tumors, which spread from other parts of the body.

Tumors are classified as benign or malignant:

  • Benign tumors grow slowly and may not require immediate surgical intervention.

  • Malignant tumors grow rapidly, infiltrate healthy brain tissue, and can cause significant neurological damage.

Diagnosis
If a brain tumor is suspected during a neurological examination, further diagnostic tests are required, including:

  • MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – Primary imaging method for detecting brain tumors.

  • CT scan with contrast – Used when MRI is not sufficient.

  • PET-CT (Positron Emission Tomography) – Helps determine tumor activity and spread.

  • Magnetoencephalography (MEG) – Measures brain activity and function.

  • Spinal fluid puncture (Lumbar puncture) – Detects cancer cells in cerebrospinal fluid.

  • EEG (Electroencephalography) – Assesses electrical activity of the brain.

  • Stereotactic biopsy – A minimally invasive procedure to obtain a tissue sample for diagnosis.

Treatment
Treatment depends on the type, size, and location of the tumor. Options include:

  • Medication Therapy – Manages symptoms such as increased intracranial pressure and tumor-induced seizures.

  • Surgical TreatmentCraniotomy – Open brain surgery to remove the tumor and prevent recurrence.
    Gamma Knife Surgery – A non-invasive radiosurgery technique used for small tumors without infiltrative growth.
    Surgery for Hydrocephalus – Performed if fluid buildup occurs due to the tumor.

  • Radiotherapy & Chemotherapy – Used when surgery is not fully effective in removing malignant tumors.

  • Targeted Therapies –Anti-angiogenesis drugs – Prevent the formation of new blood vessels that feed tumors.
    Immunotherapy & Gene Therapy – Experimental treatments that enhance the body’s ability to fight cancer cells.

Cost of Diagnosis & Treatment:

  • 26,000,000 – 29,000,000 KRW (Benign tumor removal)

  • 32,000,000 – 36,000,000 KRW (Malignant tumor removal)

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