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Conditions and treatments

Brain tumours

A diagnosis of a brain tumour is frightening. Many brain tumours are benign, and treatment has advanced greatly. We explain every step.

What it is

A brain tumour is a growth of abnormal cells in the brain or its coverings. Benign tumours, such as most meningiomas and pituitary tumours, grow slowly and do not spread. Malignant tumours, such as high-grade gliomas, grow faster.

Tumours can also spread to the brain from cancer elsewhere in the body.

Symptoms

  • Headaches that are new, persistent or worse in the morning, often with nausea or vomiting
  • Seizures (fits), especially a first seizure in an adult
  • Weakness or numbness on one side of the body
  • Changes in vision, speech or hearing
  • Changes in memory, behaviour or personality
Seek urgent help: A first seizure, a sudden severe headache, sudden weakness or increasing drowsiness. Call +263 77 547 2744 or go to your nearest hospital.

How we diagnose it

  • A neurological examination
  • An MRI scan of the brain with contrast. A CT scan is used when MRI is not available
  • An EEG when seizures are a concern
  • Examination of the tumour tissue after a biopsy or operation, which confirms the exact type

Treatment without surgery

  • Observation with repeat scans for small benign tumours without symptoms
  • Steroids to reduce swelling, and medication to control seizures
  • Radiotherapy and chemotherapy for some tumour types, planned with your oncologist

When surgery is needed

For most tumours that cause symptoms, surgery is the first step. The aim is to remove as much of the tumour as is safe, to relieve pressure and to establish the diagnosis.

The operation is planned from your scans and carried out at one of our partner hospitals.

Recovery

Most patients spend the first night in a high-care or intensive care unit and about a week in hospital. Recovery varies with the type and position of the tumour, and further treatment is planned once the laboratory result is known.

All surgery carries risks, including infection, bleeding and nerve injury. Dr Mba will explain the risks and benefits that apply to you before any decision is made.

Common questions

Are all brain tumours cancer?

No. Many are benign and can be removed completely or simply watched.

Do my headaches mean I have a brain tumour?

Very rarely. Most headaches have other causes. Headaches that are new, worsening, or accompanied by other symptoms should be assessed.

Can I get a second opinion on my scan?

Yes. You can send your scans for review without travelling.

This page gives general information and does not replace a consultation.

Reviewed by Dr Serge Eddy Mba, Spine Neurosurgeon

Spine and Brain Surgery Centre

Specialist brain and spine surgery in Harare and Gweru.

Mon to Fri 07:00 to 18:00
Emergencies after hours and at weekends

Contact

+263 77 547 2744
WhatsApp us
sbs@spineandbrainsurgery.co.zw

Locations

Avondale: 8 Angus Close
Borrowdale: 4 Borrowdale Lane
Gweru: Midlands Private Hospital

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