Brain Tumor Treatment in Mumbai, India

Brain tumors or intracranial tumors are the abnormal growth of cells in the brain and skull and other areas like the lining of the brain, brainstem, nasal cavity and sinuses. Nanavati Max Hospital is a leading hospital providing brain tumor treatment in Mumbai, making it the best choice for brain tumor patients.

Associated Anatomy

brain cells, meninges, and nerve cells

Alternate Name

Brain cancer, CNS malignancy

Types of Brain Tumors

There are over 120 types of brain tumors, cysts and lesions and they differ from one another depending on what cells they contain and where they are formed.

Primary tumors develop in the brain. The cancer can metastasize (spread) to other parts of the body and these tumors are known as secondary or metastatic brain tumors. The brain tumors that are not cancerous are known as benign or noncancerous brain tumors. Cancerous brain tumors are known as brain cancers or malignant brain tumors.

There are many subtypes of brain tumors such as:

• Gliomas: These look similar to glial cells in the brain tissue. Most gliomas are malignant, while some can be benign. Some gliomas include astrocytoma, ependymoma, oligodendroglioma and glioblastoma.
• Meningiomas: Meningiomas are the most common noncancerous or benign brain tumors, but at times they may be malignant. These brain tumors develop in the brain and spinal cord membranes.
• Pituitary tumors: These develop in the pituitary gland or around it and are mostly noncancerous. The tumors occurring in the pituitary gland are known as pituitary tumors, whereas the tumors developing around the gland are called craniopharyngioma.

There are many other types of brain tumors including choroid plexus tumors, embryonal tumors, primary central nervous system (CNS) lymphomas, pineal gland tumors, nerve tumors and schwannomas.

Brain Tumors Causes

There are no known reasons why certain cells turn into tumor cells. Genetic factors or the person’s environment could be contributing factors. Some potential causes of brain cancer may include factors such as:

• Genetic predisposition and hereditary factors
  • Less than 5% of brain tumors are caused by genetics. Having a close relative such as a parent or sibling can increase brain cancer risk.
• Environmental factors and exposure to radiation
  • Exposure to strong radiation or ionisation radiation, which can alter the DNA in the body can increase the risk of brain tumors. This can include exposure and radiation therapies used for cancer treatment or atomic bomb radiation exposure
• Potential links to certain medical conditions
  • Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) raises the risk of central nervous system (CNS) lymphoma. Some conditions like Von Hippel-Lindau disease, neurofibromatosis, Li-Fraumeni syndrome, familial adenomatous polyposis, basal cell nevus syndrome (Gorlin syndrome), Lynch syndrome, tuberous sclerosis and Cowden syndrome also increase the risk of brain cancer.

Brain Tumor Risk Factors

Certain factors can increase a person’s risk for brain cancer. Some of the factors include:

• Age: Although they may occur in people of any age, brain tumors occur more commonly in adults who are 65 years or older or in children.
• Gender: Brain tumors are seen more commonly in men than women. However, specific tumors such as meningiomas occur more commonly in women.
• Ethnicity and race: Race and ethnicity of the person can increase brain tumor risk. For example, white people in the US are more likely to develop certain types of brain cancers as compared to blacks and vice versa. Moreover, Europeans are two times more at risk for brain tumors than the Japanese.
• Family history and inherited syndromes: As we have discussed earlier in detail, there are certain genetic conditions and family history of brain tumors that can increase the risk of individuals developing the disease. Also, people born with certain syndromes, such as neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis, Li-Fraumeni syndrome and von Hippel-Lindau disease have an increased risk of brain tumors.
• Weak immune system: People with weak immune systems including those that have had an organ transplant or have AIDS are at a higher risk of brain tumors like primary CNS lymphoma (lymphomas of the spinal cord or brain.
• Ionising radiation: This typically is because of radiation therapy used to treat other types of cancers. Other forms of radiation exposure like atomic bomb radiation exposure put people at risk for developing brain tumors.
• Exposure to chemicals: Exposure to chemicals such as vinyl chloride, pesticides, solvents and oil products may increase brain tumor incidence risk.

Brain Tumors Symptoms

The symptoms caused by brain tumor depends on the location, size and grade of the brain tumor (growth rate) of the tumor. Benign tumors cause very gradually occurring or have almost unnoticeable symptoms. Cancerous brain tumors may cause sudden symptoms that become worse very fast.

Some common brain tumor symptoms include:

• Headaches or pressure in the head that are more severe in the morning
• Frequent and more severe headaches
• Headaches that seem like migraines or stress headaches
• Headache accompanied by pain in the neck, sinuses or eyes
• Blurry vision, loss of peripheral vision or double vision
• Nausea or vomiting
• Balance problems
• Loss of movement or sensation in the leg or arm
• Speech issues
• Tiredness and fatigue
• Confusion, forgetfulness, disorientation or lack of interest in things
• Inability to follow simple instructions
• Seizures
• Changes in behaviour or personality
• Hearing problems
• Vertigo (dizziness)
• Increased appetite and weight gain

Brain Tumor Diagnosis

There are many tests to diagnose brain tumors. They can help identify brain tumor type, determine if the tumor has spread and find the best medical treatment for the disease.

Diagnosing brain tumors can be quite complex due to their location and the multiple symptoms they cause. It is extremely important to consult a specialist and use advanced medical techniques to detect and identify the brain tumor early on, enabling the best and most effective treatment.

Below are some common tests doctors use to diagnose brain tumor:

• Neurological exam: This involves different tests to assess the changes in a person’s neurological functions like mental status, reflexes, coordination, balance, strength, vision and hearing.
• Imaging techniques: There are different techniques such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, positron emission tomography (PET) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the head and brain to identify the type of brain tumor and determine its location.
• Biopsy: The technique comprises the collection of tissue samples from the tumor to identify its type and if it is malignant.
• Spinal Tap: Also known as lumbar puncture, this procedure makes use of cerebrospinal fluid from around the spine to check for the presence of cancer cells.

Multidisciplinary Approach to Brain Tumor Treatment

Brain tumor is a complex condition and the treatment for the disease varies from one patient to another depending on various factors, as well as the patient’s preference.

Personalised Treatment Plans

Generally, brain tumor treatment includes various treatments such as surgery, radiation therapies, chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Usually, a treatment plan is personalised for every patient. The method of treatment is decided after evaluating various aspects such as:

• The size, type, location and grade of the tumor
• If the tumor is malignant or benign
• Medical history of the patient and their overall health
• If the tumor is putting pressure on any part of the brain
• If the tumor has metastasised to any other parts of the CNS or body
• Probable side effects

Brain tumor treatment involves the collaborative effort of a multidisciplinary team comprising oncologists, neurosurgeons, radiation oncologists, nurses, dietitians, counsellors, occupational therapists, physical therapists and rehabilitation specialists who work together to ensure that the patient receives the best possible medical treatment and care.

Surgical Interventions

Surgery is a commonly used brain tumor treatment which depends on the size and location of the tumor. Brain tumor surgery could be to resection (remove the tumor completely), subtotal resection (remove the tumor partially) or to perform a biopsy.

Some of the common surgical procedures used for brain tumors include:

• Craniotomy: This is a commonly used procedure for brain tumor removal. An incision is made in the scalp and a piece of bone is removed from the skull and allows the surgeon to access the tumor.
• Minimally invasive techniques:There are many minimally invasive surgeries for brain tumor treatment, where the patient has lesser pain and quicker recovery, such as:
  • MRI-guided laser ablation: Here, lasers are used to target and kill serious forms of brain tumors.
  • Neuroendoscopy: Also known as endoscopic brain tumor surgery, in this procedure, the tumor is removed via very small holes made in the skull.
• Tubular Retractor System: This procedure is used for the removal of tumors situated deep within the brain.

Some of the risks and side effects of brain tumor surgery are

• Bleeding
• Headaches
• Infections
• Blood clots
• Brain tissue injury
• Brain swelling
• Confusion
• Dizziness, balance problems
• Aphasia (speech problems)

Recovery from brain surgery can vary, from a few weeks in the case of minimally invasive surgery to 6 weeks to several months for open brain surgery. After the surgery, the medical team monitors the patient and administers the medications needed to relieve pain and swelling and prevent seizures. Patients may be given physical therapy to aid quicker recovery and speech therapy if required.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams such as protons and X-rays to destroy tumor cells. There are different types of radiation therapies such as:

• External beam radiation: This delivers radiation from a mafchine that is outside the body. Some external radiation therapies include conventional radiation therapy, 3D-conformal radiation therapy (CRT) and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT).
• Proton therapy: This technique utilises protons instead of X-rays to kill brain tumor cells.
• Stereotactic radiosurgery: This uses one high radiation dose targeted at the tumor directly instead of the healthy tissue. This technique is effective for treating tumors that are only present in one part of the brain and some benign tumors.

The biggest advantages of radiation therapies discussed here are that the radiation beam can be focused directly on the tumor to kill the cancerous cells while preventing the healthy tissue from exposure to high radiation doses and thus minimising damage caused to them.

Radiation therapy can cause side effects such as weakness and fatigue, hair thinning or hair loss, nausea and vomiting and worsening of brain tumor symptoms like headaches, seizures and feeling sick. People must go to the doctor for follow-ups every 3-4 months in the first 2-3 years after brain tumor treatment and 1-2 times annually after that.

Chemotherapy and Targeted Therapies

Chemotherapy and targeted therapies use medications that can be taken orally or via intravenous (IV) injections.

• Chemotherapy makes use of drugs to kill tumor cells and prevents them from growing and multiplying.
• Targeted therapy targets the specific proteins and genes that encourage brain tumor cells to grow and survive. Targeted therapy impacts the tissue environment in which the cancer cells grow or targets cancer-growth-related cells such as blood vessel cells.
• Immunotherapy: This method makes use of medications to control the immune system and enable the body to combat cancer.

Targeted therapies are being popularly used as a treatment for brain tumors because they target the harmful cancer cells while sparing the healthy ones. Also, they have lesser and milder side effects.

Brain tumors have not exhibited a similar level of responsiveness to immunotherapy when compared to other types of cancer. However, research in this area is ongoing.

Why Choose Nanavati Max Hospital for Brain tumor Treatment in Mumbai

Brain tumor treatment can be complex and choosing the appropriate healthcare institution can play an important role in the patient’s challenging journey towards recovery. Below are some key reasons as to why Max Nanavati Hospital is the best for brain tumor treatment in Mumbai:

• Well-known for its top-notch facilities, multidisciplinary oncology team and personalised medical treatment and care, Nanavati Max Hospital is a pioneer in brain tumor treatment in Mumbai and one of the top choices for people looking for advanced and complete medical treatment for brain tumors.
• Nanavati Max Hospital is well-known for its state-of-the-art facilities and use of cutting-edge technology. And, when brain tumor treatment is considered, the hospital offers patients access to state-of-the-art diagnostics and the most advanced radiation and other therapies for cancer treatment. The hospital is committed to advancements in medicine ensuring that the patients get the best, personalised and most effective treatment.
• The hospital has a globally recognised multidisciplinary team of highly skilled, knowledgeable and experienced oncologists, neurosurgeons, radiation therapists, and other support staff who are dedicated to the treatment of brain tumors.
• The patient’s well-being is at the heart of the care philosophy at Nanavati Max Hospital. And, right from when the time the brain tumor is diagnosed to the consultations with specialists, development of the medical treatment plan to when the patient recovers, the hospital follows a patient-centric approach.
• Brain tumors can be a challenging journey both for the patient, as well as their loved ones. Nanavati Max is like a pillar of strength offering a supportive environment and compassionate care where the patient gets complete physical, medical, mental and emotional support to make their battle with brain tumor more manageable.
• The hospital strives to go beyond simply curing disease. It aims to help and support patients so that they can manage their side effects better and also helps enhance their quality of life as they navigate the complex brain tumor treatment.

Scheduling a Consultation

Scheduling an appointment at Nanavati Max Hospital is very simple and there are different ways by which an appointment can be taken.

• Max Healthcare App: The Max Healthcare app is available for Android and iOS devices and can be easily downloaded by scanning the QR code on the Max Healthcare website. Alternatively, it is possible to download the app through Google Play for Android or the App Store for iPhones. The speciality or doctor according to the location desired along with the date and time of appointment can be chosen according to the patient’s preference.
• Nanavati Max Website: A doctor’s appointment can be easily scheduled via the Max Healthcare website. The speciality/doctor can be selected along with the hospital in the city. Then, the appropriate date and time of the appointment can be chosen as required.
• Phone: The patient can also call the Max Nanavati Hospital appointment numbers listed on their website to schedule an appointment.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are All Brain Tumors Cancerous?

No, not all brain tumors are cancerous. Noncancerous brain tumors are also known as benign brain tumors.

2. How Can I Lower My Risk of Developing a Brain Tumor?

It is possible to reduce the risk of developing brain tumors by avoiding all environmental factors like excessive exposure to radiation and smoking.

3. Is Genetic Testing Relevant for Brain Tumor Patients?

Genetic testing for brain tumors is not required. However, it may be recommended when there are specific types of cancer in the family and in case there is a risk of gene mutation.

4. How Long Does Recovery Take After Brain Tumor Surgery?

Recovery from brain surgery can take a few weeks in the case of minimally invasive surgery, whereas for open brain surgery, the recovery time can vary between 6 weeks to a few months.

5. Can Brain Tumors Recur After Treatment?

Yes, it is quite common for brain tumors to recur after some time of treatment.

6. What is The Cost for Treatment of Brain tumor?

The cost of brain tumor treatment can range from INR 4,00,000 to INR 5,50,000 in India.

7. How is The Choice of Brain Tumor Treatment Determined?

Brain tumor treatment depends on whether the cancer is malignant or benign. The treatment will also depend on the size, type, location and grade of brain tumor.

8. Can Brain Tumors be Treated Without Surgery?

Brain tumors can be treated without surgery using techniques like chemotherapy, radiation therapy alternating electric field therapy and targeted therapy.

9. What Role Does Radiation Therapy Play in Brain Tumor Treatment?

Radiation therapy uses high-energy beams to destroy brain cancer cells. It can help control the growth of certain brain tumors. Often, radiation therapy is used along with surgery and chemotherapy for brain tumor treatment.

10. How Do Doctors Monitor The Effectiveness of Brain Tumor Treatment?

Usually, patients undergoing brain tumor treatment are monitored with an MRI every 2-3 months during the treatment. They must have MRIs to monitor their health and the effectiveness of the treatment once the treatment is complete and to check if the tumor has not grown.

11. How Does The Location and Size of The Brain Tumor Impact Treatment Decisions?

The symptoms of a brain tumor can vary depending on the location and size of the tumor, and these factors will also determine the type of treatment.

12. Can Paediatric Brain Tumors be Treated Differently from Adult Brain Tumors?

Yes, the type of cells and treatment response of brain tumors are different in both children and adults and so, the treatment for both also differs.