Brain/CNS cancers

Overview

Central Nervous System (CNS) cancers arise from the brain or spinal cord. They include tumors such as gliomas, meningiomas, medulloblastomas, and metastatic brain tumors. Unlike many other cancers, CNS tumors often affect function rather than spreading widely — meaning even benign tumors can be serious due to pressure on vital structures controlling speech, movement, vision, or memory.

Advances in imaging, neurosurgery, and precision radiotherapy have dramatically improved survival and quality of life.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of most CNS tumors is unknown, but several risk factors are recognized:

• Previous radiation exposure to the head (especially in childhood)

• Genetic syndromes (Neurofibromatosis, Li-Fraumeni, Tuberous sclerosis)

• Family history of brain tumors

• Weakened immune system

• Certain environmental chemical exposures (rare associations)

Unlike many other cancers, lifestyle habits like smoking or diet play a smaller role.

Common Symptoms

Symptoms depend on tumor location and growth rate. They usually occur due to increased intracranial pressure or loss of specific brain function.

Typical warning signs include:

• Persistent or early-morning headache

• Vomiting not related to stomach illness

• Seizures (fits) in a person with no prior epilepsy

• Weakness of arm or leg on one side

• Difficulty speaking or understanding speech

• Vision disturbances or double vision

• Memory or personality changes

• Imbalance or difficulty walking

Any new seizure or progressive neurological deficit requires urgent evaluation.

Screening and Prevention

There is no routine screening test for brain tumors in the general population because they are relatively rare. However, high-risk individuals (genetic syndromes or prior childhood radiation) may require periodic.

MRI surveillance. Preventive considerations: Avoid unnecessary radiation exposure

• Genetic counseling in hereditary syndromes

• Early medical consultation for persistent neurological symptoms

Early imaging detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

Treatment Approaches

Management depends on tumor type, grade, and location and requires a multidisciplinary team.

Main treatment options include:

• Surgery: First step whenever safely possible to remove tumor and relieve pressure

• Radiation Therapy: Essential after surgery or as primary treatment in inoperable tumors

• Chemotherapy: Especially for high-grade gliomas and pediatric tumors

• Targeted Therapy & Immunotherapy: Used in selected molecular subtypes

• Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS): Highly precise radiation for small tumors or metastases

Treatment aims not only at cure but also preservation of neurological function and quality of life.

Cutting-Edge Cancer Care by Dr. Rajesh Natte

Dr. Rajesh Natte, a specialist in advanced radiation oncology, treats complex cancers including colorectal and CNS tumors using modern precision radiotherapy.

Using Image-Guided Radiotherapy (IGRT), Intensity-Modulated Radiotherapy (IMRT), Stereotactic Radiosurgery (SRS), and Volumetric Modulated Arc Therapy (VMAT), he delivers radiation with sub-millimeter accuracy — critical for protecting delicate brain structures such as optic nerves, brainstem, and memory centers.

With MRI-fusion planning, adaptive radiotherapy, and AI-based contouring, treatment is individualized for each patient, resulting in:

• Maximum tumor control

• Preservation of neurological function

• Reduced cognitive side effects

• Shorter treatment courses in selected cases

Patients benefit from globally comparable technology combined with personalized care close to home.

Conclusion

CNS tumors are complex but increasingly treatable with modern technology. Early recognition of neurological symptoms, timely imaging, and precision therapy are key to better outcomes.

Through advanced radiotherapy platforms and patient-centered care, Dr. Rajesh Natte continues to deliver highly effective treatment for challenging cancers while preserving quality of life.