June 8 is observed as the World Brain Tumour Day to raise awareness about the health dangers of tumours, particularly those causing neurological issues. All tumours don’t develop into cancers, but when they do, they can be a serious threat to the patient’s life. We spoke to Dr Sonal Gupta , senior director and HoD of neurosurgery at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, Delhi, about tumours and their diagnosis.
Excerpts: What is a tumour and how is it different from a cyst and cancer? A tumour is a solid mass of tissue due to abnormal growth of cells. A cyst is a fluid-filled sac. Cancer is a term for tumours that invade surrounding tissues, grow rapidly and can spread in other parts of the body too.
How would a person know they have a tumour and it’s time to see a doctor? Signs can vary but might include unexplained pain, a lump you can feel, losing weight without trying, headaches, or changes in vision or movement. If you notice any persistent or unusual symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor. CT Scan and MRI can help detect tumours of the brain.
What kinds of tumours develop into cancers and can they be prevented from turning malignant? Most of the tumours that are benign or noncancerous remain benign. Some tumours over time can turn cancerous. So, timely diagnosis and treatment of tumours is necessary.
What are some common misconceptions about tumours and how can they be addressed? Many people think all tumours are cancerous, which isn’t true. Tumours can be treated.