What it means
A primary brain tumor starts in the brain or its coverings, such as a glioma or meningioma; a secondary (metastatic) tumor has spread from cancer elsewhere, such as the lung or breast. Because the skull cannot stretch, even a benign tumor can press on the brain and raise intracranial pressurein-truh-KRAY-nee-ul PRESH-erThe pressure inside the skull, made by the brain, the blood and the fluid around the brain.intra- insidecrani/o skull-al relating toFull entry . Effects depend on where it grows.
For the nurse
Watch level of consciousness, pupils, speech and strength on each side, and report new headaches, vomiting or seizures. Use seizure precautions as ordered.
At a glance
| Spanish | tumor cerebral |
|---|---|
| Also written | brain tumors, brain tumour |
Related terms
intracranial pressure
The pressure inside the skull, made by the brain, the blood and the fluid around the brain.
seizure
A sudden burst of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that changes movement, feeling, behavior or awareness.
metastasis
The spread of cancer cells from where the cancer started to other parts of the body.
cerebral edema
Swelling of the brain caused by extra fluid in the brain tissue.