Brain Tumor: Symptoms, Causes, & Diagnosis

What is a Brain Tumor?

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells inside or around the brain. These cells multiply in an uncontrolled way, forming a mass that can interfere with normal brain functions – such as movement, speech, memory, and balance.

Not every brain tumor is cancerous. Some are benign (non-cancerous) and grow slowly without spreading to other tissues. Others are malignant (cancerous), grow quickly, and can invade surrounding brain tissue.

Brain tumors can be primary – meaning they originate in the brain itself – or secondary (metastatic), where cancer from another organ such as the lungs or breasts spreads to the brain. Early detection through MRI scan and CT scan is the key to better treatment outcomes.

Types of Brain Tumors at a Glance

Brain tumors are classified based on their origin, grade, and rate of growth. The table below gives a quick overview of the most common types:

Table 1: Common Brain Tumor Types – Classification & Key Characteristics

Brain Tumor Symptoms

Symptoms of a brain tumor vary depending on the tumor’s size, type, and location. Some people experience symptoms gradually, while others notice sudden changes. It is important not to ignore persistent or unusual symptoms.

Common Symptoms to Watch For

• Persistent or worsening headaches – especially worse in the morning or after lying down
• Seizures – in someone with no prior history of epilepsy
• Nausea and vomiting – unexplained and not linked to any stomach illness
• Vision changes – blurred vision, double vision, or loss of peripheral vision
• Memory problems and confusion – difficulty thinking clearly or remembering things
• Weakness or numbness – in the arms, legs, or one side of the body
• Speech difficulties – slurred speech, trouble finding words, or understanding language
• Personality or mood changes – unexplained irritability, depression, or behavioral shifts
• Loss of balance and coordination – stumbling, poor coordination, or dizziness
• Hearing problems – ringing in the ears or gradual hearing loss

Symptoms Based on Tumor Location

The brain controls different functions from different regions. So symptoms can hint at where a tumor might be located:

Causes and Risk Factors of Brain Tumors

The exact cause of most brain tumors is still not fully understood. However, research has identified several factors that may increase the risk.

Possible Causes

• Genetic mutations – Certain gene changes cause cells to grow and divide uncontrollably.
• DNA damage – Errors in the DNA of brain cells can trigger abnormal growth.
• Metastasis from other cancers – Cancer spreading to the brain from other organs is a common cause in adults.

Known Risk Factors

Age – Brain tumors can occur at any age, but certain types are more common in children and older adults.

• Radiation exposure – Exposure to ionizing radiation (e.g., previous radiation therapy to the head) increases risk.
• Family history – A small percentage of brain tumors are linked to hereditary conditions such as neurofibromatosis or Li-Fraumeni syndrome.
• Weakened immune system – People with HIV/AIDS or those on immunosuppressive medications have a higher risk.
• Gender – Some types of brain tumors, such as meningiomas, are more common in women.

Who is At Risk?

Brain tumors do not discriminate – they can affect men, women, children, and older adults alike. However, primary brain tumors are slightly more common in males, while meningiomas are more frequently seen in females. Metastatic brain tumors are more common than primary ones and usually affect adults who have had cancer elsewhere in the body.

 How is a Brain Tumor Diagnosed?

Diagnosing a brain tumor involves a combination of clinical evaluation and advanced imaging tests. At Prolife Diagnostics, Bhubaneswar, we offer state-of-the-art diagnostic services to support accurate and timely detection.

Step 1 – Neurological Examination

Your doctor will first perform a thorough neurological examination – checking your vision, hearing, balance, coordination, strength, and reflexes. Any abnormalities can help identify which part of the brain may be affected.

Step 2 – Imaging Tests

MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) – An MRI brain scan is the most preferred imaging test for brain tumors. It produces detailed images of soft tissue and can detect even small tumors with remarkable clarity. An MRI with contrast dye (gadolinium) provides even better detail.

CT Scan (Computed Tomography) – A CT scan uses X-rays to create cross-sectional images of the brain. It is often the first test done in emergencies – such as after a seizure or sudden neurological change – as it is faster than an MRI.

Step 3 – Biopsy

If imaging suggests a tumor, a biopsy may be recommended. A biopsy involves removing a small sample of tumor tissue – either through open surgery or a minimally invasive needle technique (stereotactic biopsy). This sample is then examined under a microscope by a pathologist to confirm the tumor type and grade.

Step 4 – Immunohistochemistry (IHC) 

Our immunohistochemistry service provides molecular-level analysis of tumor tissue, helping identify specific protein markers that guide treatment decisions and prognosis.

Step 4 -Palliative Care

For tumors that cannot be cured, palliative care focuses on managing symptoms, relieving pain, and improving quality of life. It is an important part of the care plan for patients with advanced brain tumors.

Step 6 – Additional Investigations

In some cases, the doctor may also recommend an EEG test (Electroencephalogram) to assess electrical activity in the brain, particularly if seizures are present. Blood tests and histopathology may also support the diagnosis.

Brain Tumor Grading – What Do Grades Mean?

Once diagnosed, brain tumors are graded on a scale of I to IV based on how abnormal the cells look under the microscope and how quickly they are likely to grow:

• Grade I – Slow-growing, cells look nearly normal. Usually benign. Lowest risk.
• Grade II – Relatively slow-growing, slightly abnormal cells. May recur over time.
• Grade III – Actively growing, clearly abnormal cells. Malignant. Tend to spread into nearby tissue.
• Grade IV – Fastest-growing, highly abnormal cells. Most aggressive. (e.g., Glioblastoma Multiforme)

Brain Tumor Diagnosis at Prolife Diagnostics, Bhubaneswar

At Prolife Diagnostics, we understand that receiving a potential brain tumor diagnosis can be overwhelming. Our mission is to provide you with accurate, timely, and compassionate diagnostic support so you and your doctor can make the most informed decisions.

Why Choose Prolife Diagnostics?

• NABL Accredited Excellence – Odisha’s only NABL-accredited diagnostic center with excellence in both Radiology and Pathology services.
• 10+ Years of Trusted Experience – A decade of delivering accurate diagnostics and dependable healthcare support to patients and clinicians.
• Advanced MRI & CT Scan Technology – High-resolution imaging systems for precise evaluation and early detection of neurological conditions, including brain tumors.
• 500,000+ Tests Conducted – Extensive diagnostic expertise backed by over five lakh tests performed across various specialties.
• 200,000+ Patients Served – Trusted by more than two lakh patients for reliable, patient-focused diagnostic care.
• Experienced Specialists – A dedicated team of skilled radiologists, pathologists, and healthcare professionals committed to diagnostic excellence.
• Fast & Accurate Reporting – Timely and reliable reports that help doctors make informed treatment decisions without unnecessary delays.
• Convenient Location Near AIIMS Bhubaneswar – Strategically located with easy accessibility for patients from Bhubaneswar and surrounding regions.
• Affordable & Quality Healthcare – High-quality diagnostic services offered at competitive and patient-friendly pricing.
• Comprehensive Diagnostic Services Under One Roof – MRI, CT Scan, EEG test, Biopsy, Histopathology, Immunohistochemistry (IHC), and other advanced diagnostic services available at a single center.

Need an accurate Brain Tumor Diagnosis? Book your MRI scan or CT scan today at Prolife Diagnostics,, or call +91 8630400500 / +91 9040017001 to schedule an appointment.

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