Op. Dr. Tahsin SAYGI
What is a Brain Tumour?
Brain tumour is the name given to the mass formed as a result of uncontrolled proliferation of cells in the brain. These cells proliferate and turn into a space-occupying mass and this mass creates pressure on the brain over time. Various complaints occur due to pressure on the brain. In a healthy person, cells proliferate only when there is a need; for example, when there is a need to produce new cells to replace old or damaged cells. If cells proliferate unnecessarily without such a need, masses called benign or malignant tumours are formed. If this occurs in the brain, a brain tumour occurs. If the tumour affects only the organ where it is located; in other words, if it does not migrate to another part of the body and multiply there and cause a mass, it is called a benign tumour. If the tumour migrates out of the organ it is located in via the blood or lymphatic system and migrates to other parts of the body (metastasises), starts to multiply uncontrollably in those areas and starts to put pressure on the surrounding tissues, such tumours are called malignant tumours (cancer). The main distinguishing factor between benign tumours and malignant tumours is the spread of the tumour to distant parts of the body (metastasis), whereas this is not the case in the brain.
Causes of Brain Tumour
Although it is not known exactly what causes brain tumours, some factors are known to increase the risk. These factors include male gender, white race and being over 65 years of age. Radiation exposure and exposure to certain chemicals are also risk factors. Genetic predisposition may cause brain tumours to be more common in some families. There are also some brain tumours with familial transmission. This indicates that certain genetic mutations and inherited genes play a role in the formation of brain tumours. Some substances used in the plastics and textile industry are also considered to be risk factors. Especially prolonged exposure to industrial chemicals may increase the risk of brain tumours. In addition, some viral infections may also play a role in the development of brain tumours. For example, some viruses such as Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus can trigger the formation of brain tumours. Herpes-zoster infection can reduce the risk of a brain tumour called low-grade glioma. In addition, a weakened immune system can also increase the risk of brain tumours. In particular, immune system diseases or immunosuppressive drugs can facilitate the development of brain tumours. Research on the causes and risk factors of brain tumours is contributing to a better understanding of this disease and the development of more effective treatment methods. However, there are still many unknowns about the causes of brain tumours and more research is needed in this area.
