Brain Tumor Types

Primary brain tumors are named according to the type of cells or by the part of the brain where it originates. There are more than 120 different types of brain tumors, making it difficult to find effective treatments.

Most Common Brain Tumor Types In Adults

• Meningioma
 The tumor grows from the meninges, the layers of tissue covering the brain and spinal cord. As it grows, meningioma compresses other brain tissue, which can affect cranial nerves.
• Glioblastoma (GBM) These are highly malignant (cancerous) tumors that arise from astrocytes (star-shaped glial cells where the tumor originates) or supportive tissue of the brain. They are generally found in the cerebral hemispheres of the brain, but can be found anywhere in the brain or spinal cord.
• Pituitary These tumors develop in the pituitary gland and are called adenomas (benign) or carcinomas (malignant).
• Astrocytoma Astrocytes can develop in any part of the brain or spinal cord. They are star-shaped glial cells where the tumor originates. It can be any grade but in adults, it most often arises in the cerebrum.
• Ependymoma
 An ependymoma, part of the glial family, is a rare type of primary brain or spinal cord tumor. It originates in the ependyma, the cells that line the passageways in the brain where cerebrospinal fluid is produced.
• Oligodendroglioma The tumor, usually occurring in the cerebrum (located in the upper part of the skull), forms from cells that create the fatty substance that covers and protects nerves. The cerebrum, which is located in the anterior or front portion of the brain, determines personality, intelligence, sensory impulse and motor function.