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When it comes to brain tumors, glioma and glioblastoma are two terms that often surface in medical discussions. These conditions can be confusing, as their names sound remarkably similar, but they have significant differences in terms of prognosis, treatment options, and outcomes.

Sit down with Peter Fecci, MD, PhD, from the Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center on this week’s episode of the Immunology Podcast, as he talks about his lab’s work in activating T cells to target brain tumors.

Finding therapies that can enter the brain and effectively treat tumors remains a hugely significant challenge for patients with brain cancer. However, recent research published in Cell Reports has shown that fluoxetine (commonly known as Prozac) can both directly damage tumor cells by inhibiting a key metabolic process, as well as potentially make them more sensitive to chemotherapy (temozolomide). Fluoxetine is known to cross the blood-brain barrier and is currently used to treat depression.

Dealing with brain cancer is daunting, but understanding the available treatment options is crucial for patients and their loved ones. Let’s dive into the various approaches used to tackle brain cancer. From conventional treatments like surgery and radiation to innovative therapies that are in clinical trials, we will explore cutting-edge advancements in the field. Let’s begin exploring and unraveling the best treatment options for brain cancer.

When you’re diagnosed with a brain tumor, one of the most important factors that can influence your brain tumor treatment and recovery is the location of the tumor in your brain. The brain is divided into two main halves—the left brain and the right brain—each responsible for different functions. Where the tumor is located can have a huge impact on what symptoms you experience, how your treatment plan is designed, and your overall prognosis.

Gliomas are the most common type of malignant brain tumor in adults, arising from glial cells that support and protect neurons in the brain. These tumors can disrupt brain function and present significant challenges for patients and caregivers. At The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center (PRTBTC), we’re here to guide you through the complexities of glioma diagnosis, treatment, and care.

When it comes to brain imaging, two popular imaging methods are widely used: MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) and CT (Computed Tomography) scans. Both techniques provide valuable insights into brain health, but they differ in terms of their technology and diagnostic capabilities. 

In this blog post, we will explore the differences between MRI and CT scans, helping you understand which one is better for brain imaging and detecting brain tumors. 

Headaches are a common occurrence that almost everyone experiences at some point in their lives. They can range from mild to severe and can be a common symptom of various factors such as stress, tension, sinus problems, or even dehydration. However, in rare cases, a headache may be a sign of a more serious underlying condition, such as a brain tumor.

Many people wonder whether brain tumors can be detected through blood work. The simple answer is no—routine blood tests cannot directly diagnose brain tumors. However, blood work is still an important part of the diagnostic process as it provides insights into your overall health and can help rule out other conditions.

A brain tumor can be a concerning health condition, and when faced with symptoms that raise suspicions, it's only natural to seek answers and explore the available diagnostic options. Today we are tackling the question of whether a CT scan can accurately detect brain tumors.

Keep reading as we delve into the topic of CT scans and their effectiveness in detecting brain tumors, shedding light on the procedure, and mentioning its limitations. Let’s get started!