Types of Brain Tumors

1. Primary Brain Tumors: Originate in the brain

   • Gliomas (astrocytoma, glioblastoma)

   • Meningiomas

   • Pituitary tumors

   • Medulloblastomas

2. Secondary (Metastatic) Tumors: Spread from cancers elsewhere (lung, breast, kidney)

Diagnosis of Brain Tumors

• MRI with contrast: Gold standard for detecting and staging tumors

• CT Scan: Evaluates bone involvement or hemorrhage

• Biopsy: Confirms tumor type and grade

• PET Scan: Detects metabolic activity and metastasis

• Neurological Examination: Assesses reflexes, motor, and sensory function

Treatment Options for Brain Tumors in India

1. Surgery

• Craniotomy: Open removal of tumor

• Endoscopic Surgery: Minimally invasive for select tumors

• Stereotactic Biopsy: For diagnosis of deep-seated tumors

2. Radiation Therapy

• External Beam Radiation (EBRT)

• Stereotactic Radiosurgery: Gamma Knife or CyberKnife for small, precise tumors

3. Chemotherapy

• Systemic drugs (Temozolomide, Carmustine) for malignant tumors

• Often combined with radiation therapy

4. Targeted Therapy

• Drugs for tumors with specific genetic markers (e.g., EGFR inhibitors)

5. Palliative Care

• Symptom management for advanced or inoperable tumors

• Corticosteroids, anti-seizure medications, pain relief

Cost of Brain Tumor Treatment in India

Table 1: Average Brain Tumor Treatment Cost in India

Factors Affecting Brain Tumor Treatment Cost

1. Tumor type and grade – Malignant gliomas require more intensive therapy.

2. Surgical complexity – Deep-seated or eloquent-area tumors need advanced techniques.

3. Radiation and chemotherapy regimen – Combination therapies increase cost.

4. Hospital type and location – Tertiary care centers in metro cities charge more.

5. Rehabilitation and follow-up – Post-surgical physiotherapy, speech therapy, and repeat imaging add to expenses.