Table 1 Summarizing the key characteristics of various brain tumor types
From: Harnessing exosomes for targeted drug delivery systems to combat brain cancer
Tumor type | Origin | Characteristics | Key notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Astrocytoma | Astrocyte cells in the cerebrum | Most common glioma; can range from low-grade to highly malignant forms | Tumor grade determines prognosis and treatment approach |
Oligodendroglioma | Oligodendrocytes | Rare, slow-growing tumors; more common in young to middle-aged adults | Uncommon in children; associated with better prognosis |
Glioblastoma | Glial cells | Aggressive and fast-growing; divided into primary (de novo) and secondary types | Challenges include poor prognosis and limited treatments |
Mixed Glioma | Multiple glial cell types | Tumors arise from combinations of ependymal, astrocyte, and oligodendrocyte cells | Behavior depends on tumor grade |
Schwannoma | Schwann cells in peripheral nerves | Typically benign; affects nerve roots or peripheral nerves | Often associated with hearing loss if involving acoustic nerve |
Meningioma | Meningeal arachnoid matter | Most common non-glial brain tumor; generally slow-growing | Constitutes 38% of primary brain cancers |
Germ Cell Tumors | Germ cells | Rare; primarily occurs in ovaries, testicles, or other locations, including the brain | Can secrete hormones or proteins detectable in blood tests |
Craniopharyngioma | Near the pituitary gland | Slow growth; often impacts hormonal balance due to proximity to the pituitary | Two types: papillary and adamantinoma Tous |
Medulloblastoma | The cerebellum, near the brainstem | Highly malignant; rapid growth and potential to spread | Commonly seen in children; responsive to radiation therapy |
Secondary Brain Cancer | Cancers from other organs (e.g., lung, breast, colon) | Tumors metastasize to the brain via bloodstream or lymphatic system | Often indicates advanced-stage primary cancer |