Primary Central Nervous System (CNS) Neoplasms, also commonly referred to as brain tumors, are abnormal growths of cells that develop within the brain or spinal cord. These neoplasms originate from the various components of the central nervous system, including the brain matter, nerve cells, blood vessels, glial cells, and membranes that surround the CNS.
Unlike secondary brain tumors that are metastatic, primary CNS tumors are localized and do not spread to other distant organs or regions of the body. They can, however, infiltrate surrounding tissues in the CNS and cause compression of adjacent structures, leading to various neurological symptoms and impairments.
Primary CNS neoplasms can be either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Benign tumors tend to grow slowly and have well-defined boundaries, whereas malignant tumors are aggressive, rapidly growing, and can invade nearby tissues or metastasize to other parts of the CNS or body. Common types of primary CNS neoplasms include gliomas (such as astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas, ependymomas), meningiomas, medulloblastomas, and others.
The classification, treatment approach, and prognosis of primary CNS neoplasms vary depending on the specific type, location, size, grade, and genetic characteristics of the tumor. Diagnosis often involves imaging techniques such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, as well as a biopsy or surgical resection to obtain a sample for further analysis. Treatment options for primary CNS neoplasms may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, depending on the individual case.
