Brain Tumours

A brain tumour is a lump in, or on the surface of, the brain due to the growth of abnormal cells. They tumour may be benign (not cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).



The most common types of brain tumours are:

  • Glioma: These are tumours that develop from abnormal growth of the supporting cells of the brain (that is, not the nerve cells). These are called glial cells. Gliomas can be slow growing (astrocytoma, oligodendroglioma) or fast growing and malignant (glioblastoma).
  • Brain Metastasis: These are tumours that have spread to the brain from a cancer elsewhere in the body – such as from breast or lung cancer, or melanoma. They may be single or multiple.
  • Meningioma: These are tumours that develop from the tissues that cover the brain and spinal cord. They are usually benign.
  • Schwannoma: These are tumours that develop from the cells that surround the nerves that come out of the brain. They are usually benign but are often in positions where surgery may be difficult.
  • Pituitary tumour: These are tumours that grow in the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain that controls many hormones. They are usually benign.
  • Craniopharyngioma: These are tumours that develop near the pituitary gland at the base of the brain but can also affect regions close by. They are usually benign but are attached to important structures that control hormones, vision, thinking and appetite, so it may not be possible to remove the whole tumour.
  • Medulloblastoma: These are malignant tumours (cancers) that are more common in children.
  • Lymphoma: These are cancers of the cells of the immune system. They may start in the brain or spread from a lymphoma elsewhere in the body.


Symptoms of a brain tumour may vary depending on the size, location, and type of tumour. Symptoms can include headache, nausea, vomiting, changes in vision, movement or speech, seizures, and changes in mood, behaviour, or cognitive function (thinking). If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor for a diagnosis and treatment plan.