Understanding brain & spine tumors
Early Detection
Dealing with brain or spine tumors is unique from any other form of tumor or cancer diagnosis. Even with tumors caught early or non-malignant tumors, the effects can be life-altering.
There are no known risk factors, preventative measures or screening tests for brain and spinal cord tumors, which makes early detection extremely difficult. These types of tumors are generally found if you or a loved one experiences symptoms and sees a doctor.
At Baptist MD Anderson, we follow MD Anderson’s model of multidisciplinary patient care, research, prevention and education. Our commitment is to bring world-renowned cancer care close to home.
Know what to look for
General Symptoms of Brain & Spine Tumors
Symptoms of brain and spine tumors are sometimes broad and vary from person to person. General symptoms may include:
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting
- Drowsiness or even coma
- Balance problems
- Personality or behavior changes
- Blurred vision
- Memory loss
- Seizures
What is a risk factor?
A risk factor is something that a person may have, based on their genetics, conditions or exposure which may increase their risk for developing cancer. With brain and spine tumors, there are no genetic risk factors, preventative measures or screening tests at this time.
Most brain or spinal tumors are found because a person is experiencing signs or symptoms. Your doctor must complete several tests to confirm a diagnosis.
Rare risk factors
The only known risk factor for brain tumors is high dose radiation exposure. For example, cancer survivors previously treated with radiation to the brain. However, this occurrence is extremely rare.
Low dose exposure such as routine X-Rays, cell phones, high-voltage power lines, microwaves, etc. have not been linked to the development of brain tumors.
Our Location
Brain & Spine Tumor Clinics
Our specialized clinics focus on the complex care needed to treat all aspects of your condition. Within our clinics, we bring together our team of experts to care for you - mind, body and spirit - all under one roof. Our singularly focused clinics include:
- Glioma Clinic
- Pituitary, Meningioma and Skull Base Clinic
- Metastases and Radiosurgery Clinic
Need Directions? The brain and spine tumor clinic is located in the main Baptist MD Anderson Cancer Center on Floor 1.
Contact Us
If you have any questions, we have you covered. We have nurse navigators available to guide you through every step of your care. Request an appointment or speak to a nurse navigator by phone or online.
For whatever step is next,
Baptist MD Anderson is Here for You
Our team of experts are ready to help you navigate the whirlwind of emotions, options and decisions through every aspect of your care.
Prepare for your appointment
See everything you need to know before coming in.
Finance & Insurance
Resources for insurance and financial questions.
I never thought at 32 I’d be diagnosed with stage 4 brain cancer, which is pretty bad from what I hear. But I’m here today so I’m pretty happy about it.