Jakarta, IO – Most tumors in the body, including the brain, are caused by genetic disorders. The diagnosis of a brain tumor can only be determined with certainty through an anatomic pathological examination, involving a biopsy using a contrast agent. It is defined as a tumor if the growth is benign or slow, whereas if it is difficult to control it is called cancer. When suspecting a brain tumor, the doctor will advise the patient to undergo examinations such as neuro-ophthalmology, electroencephalograms (EEG), and radiology.
“Most types of tumors in the brain are benign. Unlike in other organs, each area of the brain has its function so that if there is an abnormal growth, the body will reveal symptoms. Tumors in other organs are generally asymptomatic, so they are often not diagnosed until they are at an advanced stage. Symptoms of a brain tumor depend on the area of the brain affected, including paralysis of half the body or pelo (difficulty in speaking) like in stroke patients. However, what is often found is persistent headaches, increasingly frequent, in a specific place,” said Dr. dr. Tiara Anindhita, Sp.S(K), a neuro specialist consultant from Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, in a live IG themed “What Should Be Done If a Brain Tumor Is Diagnosed?” which was held late last month.
It was revealed that in handling cases of brain tumors a team consisting of neurologists, neurosurgeons, radiology, hematology-oncology in internal medicine, radiotherapy, anatomical pathology, medical rehabilitation, nutrition and psychiatry was needed. The modalities of brain tumor therapy include surgery, radiotherapy (light therapy), chemotherapy, stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) and gamma knife surgery. “Family plays an important role in the management of brain tumors. Apart from that, patients must also think positively, so they can continue their lives. The speed of diagnosis and therapy allows patients to be independent and able to carry on with their activities,” she explained.