Malignant Brain Tumor

Malignant brain tumors are tumors that occur when cells in brain tissue grow abnormally and uncontrollably. These tumors tend to grow rapidly and spread into surrounding brain tissues. They can disrupt normal brain functions and significantly affect life expectancy.

With extensive experience in neurosurgery, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that early diagnosis, accurate staging, and personalized treatment planning are the most effective ways to improve survival in patients with malignant brain tumors.

What Is a Malignant Brain Tumor?

Brain tumors are generally classified into benign (non-cancerous) and malignant (cancerous) tumors.

Malignant brain tumors grow quickly, invade nearby brain tissue, and have a high risk of recurrence.

These tumors may develop in different areas of the brain:

If they originate from glial cells, they are called gliomas.
If they arise from the protective membranes of the brain, they may be called meningiomas.
If they develop from nerve sheaths, they are known as schwannomas.

However, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı explains that the majority of malignant brain tumors originate from glial cells, particularly the aggressive type known as glioblastoma multiforme (GBM).

How Do Malignant Brain Tumors Develop?

Under normal conditions, brain cells divide and die in a controlled manner. However, genetic changes can disrupt this balance.

Because of DNA damage or mutations, cells begin to multiply uncontrollably and fail to die when they should. Over time, these abnormal cells accumulate and form tumor tissue.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı notes that factors such as genetic predisposition, radiation exposure, immune system disorders, and environmental influences may contribute to the development of malignant brain tumors.

Main Risk Factors

Genetic mutations (changes in genes such as IDH, EGFR, and TP53)
High exposure to radiation
Weak immune system
Previous brain tumor treatment
Inherited tumor syndromes

In many cases, however, the exact cause remains unknown.

Types of Malignant Brain Tumors

According to Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, malignant brain tumors are usually classified based on their cellular origin and growth characteristics.

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)

This is the most common malignant brain tumor.

It grows rapidly, spreads into surrounding brain tissue, and has a high risk of recurrence even after treatment.

Patients often develop symptoms such as headaches, seizures, balance problems, and confusion within a short period of time.

Anaplastic Astrocytoma

These tumors are classified as Grade III gliomas.

They may initially grow slowly but can progress rapidly over time.

Malignant Ependymoma

These tumors develop in the channels where cerebrospinal fluid circulates and are more common in children.

Metastatic Brain Tumors

These occur when cancer cells from another part of the body (such as lung, breast, kidney, or skin cancer) spread to the brain.

Symptoms of Malignant Brain Tumors

Symptoms vary depending on the tumor’s size, location, and the pressure it places on surrounding brain structures.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı explains that symptoms may develop gradually but sometimes appear suddenly with seizures or loss of consciousness.

Common Symptoms

Severe headaches, often worse in the morning
Nausea and vomiting
Vision or speech problems
Loss of balance or difficulty walking
Memory problems and personality changes
Weakness in the arms or legs
Seizure episodes
Confusion and excessive sleepiness

Symptoms can vary depending on the affected brain region.

For example:

Tumors in the frontal lobe may cause personality changes.
Tumors in the occipital lobe may cause vision problems.
Tumors in the temporal lobe may cause memory difficulties.

Diagnosis of Malignant Brain Tumors

Diagnosis involves both clinical evaluation and advanced imaging techniques.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI is the most reliable imaging method for detecting brain tumors.

It provides detailed information about the tumor’s size, location, and relationship with surrounding tissues.

Computed Tomography (CT Scan)

CT scans help evaluate bone structures and calcification areas.

Biopsy

For a definitive diagnosis, a tissue sample is taken from the tumor and examined under a microscope.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that biopsy plays a crucial role in determining the tumor type and grade (Grade I–IV).

Genetic and Molecular Analysis

Tests such as IDH mutation, MGMT methylation, and 1p/19q deletion help predict tumor behavior and treatment response.

Treatment of Malignant Brain Tumors

Treatment planning depends on the tumor type, grade, location, and the patient’s overall health condition.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that treatment should always involve a multidisciplinary approach, including neurosurgery, oncology, radiation oncology, and neurology.

Surgical Treatment

Surgery is usually the first step.

The goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible.

With modern microsurgical techniques and neuronavigation systems, surgeons can remove tumors while protecting healthy brain tissue.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı highlights that preserving neurological function is just as important as removing the tumor.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy is used after surgery to destroy remaining microscopic tumor cells.

Techniques such as Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT) or Gamma Knife radiosurgery allow precise targeting of tumor tissue while sparing healthy areas.

Chemotherapy

Drugs such as temozolomide are commonly used in malignant gliomas.

According to Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı, combining chemotherapy with radiotherapy significantly increases treatment effectiveness.

Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

New treatment approaches target specific tumor cells based on genetic characteristics.

In selected patients, these treatments may significantly extend survival.

Life Expectancy in Malignant Brain Tumors

Life expectancy varies greatly depending on tumor type and stage.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı states that the average survival for malignant gliomas, especially glioblastoma, is about 12–24 months.

However, with early diagnosis and successful surgical removal, survival may extend to 3–5 years or longer.

Factors Affecting Survival

Tumor grade (Grade III–IV)
Extent of surgical removal
Genetic characteristics (e.g., IDH mutation)
Patient age and general health
Response to treatment

Tumors detected at an early stage may be controlled more effectively.

Maintaining Quality of Life

Treatment should focus not only on eliminating the tumor but also on maintaining the patient’s quality of life.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes the importance of physical, cognitive, and emotional support during the treatment process.

Recommendations for Better Quality of Life

Antioxidant-rich diet (vegetables, fruits, green tea)
Avoiding refined sugar
Regular walking and light exercise
Healthy sleep patterns and stress management
Psychological support and rehabilitation programs

These measures strengthen the immune system and help patients cope better with treatment.

Follow-Up After Treatment

After treatment, patients must be monitored regularly.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı recommends brain MRI every three months during the first two years, followed by imaging every six months.

These follow-ups help detect tumor recurrence at an early stage.

Neurological examinations, cognitive tests, and blood tests should also be performed regularly.

Importance of Early Diagnosis

Early diagnosis plays a crucial role in the successful treatment of malignant brain tumors.

Symptoms such as persistent headaches, seizures, vision problems, or personality changes should not be ignored.

Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that if these symptoms persist, a brain MRI should be performed immediately.

When diagnosed early, tumors can sometimes be completely removed, significantly improving both survival and quality of life.

Malignant brain tumors are aggressive tumors that grow rapidly, spread to surrounding tissues, and have a high risk of recurrence.

However, thanks to advances in surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and molecular therapies, both survival and quality of life for patients have improved significantly.

With many years of experience in neurosurgery, Prof. Dr. Ömür Günaldı emphasizes that success in treating malignant brain tumors depends on early diagnosis, accurate treatment planning, and a multidisciplinary approach.

It should not be forgotten that not every brain tumor is fatal. With timely and appropriate medical intervention, many patients can achieve a longer and better quality life.