A brain tumor diagnosis can feel like stepping into an unfamiliar world filled with complex medical terminology. With more than 120 different types of brain tumors identified by medical experts, it is essential to know what type of tumor you have so that you know what to expect in the future. To distinguish between different types of brain tumors, you need to take a closer look at where they originate, how they behave, and what they mean for your health. If you’ve experienced a brain tumor caused by Depo-Provera use, we can help.
Common Types of Brain Tumors
Brain tumors may fall into several categories based on their characteristics and location. The most common classifications are:
- Primary vs. metastatic tumors: Primary brain tumors originate in brain cells and are categorized by the cell type or location where they first develop. Metastatic tumors, on the other hand, spread to the brain from cancer that started elsewhere in the body.
- Benign vs. malignant: Not all brain tumors are cancerous. Some grow slowly and remain contained, while others are aggressive and spread quickly. However, even benign tumors can press against brain tissue and trigger symptoms like headaches, fatigue, and vision changes.
Gliomas are one of the most common categories of primary brain tumors, forming from glial cells that surround neurons. They include several subtypes:
- Astrocytomas develop from cells called astrocytes and can arise anywhere in the brain or spinal cord
- Brain stem gliomas form in the brain stem and can affect functions like breathing, blood pressure, and body temperature
- Ependymomas develop in the lining of the brain’s ventricles or around the spinal cord
- Glioblastomas are fast-growing, aggressive tumors and one of the most common forms of brain cancer in adults
Other common types of brain tumors include meningiomas, which are usually benign, slow-growing tumors that form in the membrane surrounding the brain and spinal cord. Pituitary tumors develop in the pea-sized gland that controls hormone production throughout your body.
Diagnostic Methods for Identifying Brain Tumors
How do doctors actually distinguish between different tumor types? The process typically begins with a physical exam, neurological evaluation, and vision testing. If these assessments suggest a tumor may be present, imaging scans such as CT, MRI, or PET scans reveal the tumor’s location, size, and characteristics.
However, the definitive answer comes from a biopsy. This process involves removing a small tissue sample that pathologists analyze to identify the specific tumor type. These specialists also grade the tumor’s severity on a scale from I (slow-growing) to IV (aggressive). This evaluation helps guide your treatment plan and inform your prognosis.
Discuss Your Depo-Provera Case with Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC
Brain tumors vary in their origins, behavior, and treatment protocols. But beyond the clinical implications, the nature of your diagnosis may also affect your legal options. Meningiomas, in particular, have been linked to prolonged use of Depo-Provera, potentially opening the door to litigation against the drug’s manufacturer.
If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with a meningioma after using Depo-Provera for birth control, Shapiro Legal Group, PLLC can help. We can assess the connection between your diagnosis and your contraceptive use and advise you on whether pursuing legal action makes sense for your situation. Contact us at (800) 220-0984 to discuss your diagnosis and explore your legal options.