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A primary brain tumor should have prompt treatment. Early treatment improves the chance of a good outcome for many tumors.
The treatment approach varies with the size and type of the tumor and the general health of the person. The goals of treatment may be to cure the disorder, relieve symptoms, and improve brain function or the person's comfort.
Surgery is necessary for most primary brain tumors. Some may be completely removed. Tumors that are deep or that infiltrate brain tissue may be debulked (reducing the tumor's size and mass) rather than removed.
In cases where the tumor cannot be removed, surgery may still help reduce pressure and relieve symptoms.
Radiation therapy may be advised for tumors that are sensitive to radiation. Anticancer medications (chemotherapy) may be recommended.
Other medications may include the following:
- Corticosteroids such as dexamethasone to reduce brain swelling
- Osmotic diuretics such as urea or mannitol to reduce brain swelling and pressure
- Anti-convulsants such as phenytoin to reduce seizures
- Pain medications
- Antacids or histamine blockers to control stress ulcers
Comfort measures, safety measures, physical therapy, occupational therapy and other such steps may be required to improve quality of life. Counseling, support groups and similar measures may be needed to help in coping with the disorder.
Legal advice may be helpful in creating advanced directives, such as power of attorney, in cases where the person's condition is expected to get worse.
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