What is a skull base tumour?

Tumours near or at the base of the skull are considered critically important as they:

1. Are very difficult to access
2. Are in close proximity to all the critical blood vessels of the brain
3. Arise from or are very close to critical structures responsible for wakefulness, hormonal normalcy, or even breathing or heart activity.

What are the common Symptoms of skull base tumors?

Some common symptoms are:

• Hearing loss
• Deterioration in vision
• Nausea
• Muscle weakness
• Imbalance
• Swallowing difficulty
• Seizures
• Loss of neurological function
• Persistent headaches
• Numbness and tingling
• Change in vocal sound
• Confusion
• Memory loss
• Change in personality

How are Skull base tumors treated?

Treatment for skull base tumours depends on individual conditions such as size, location, growth, and grade of tumour, age of the person, and general health status. These tumours are sometimes mistaken for skull cancer, although many are benign, like meningiomas. Treatment options for skull base meningioma are:

1. Observation or active monitoring with follow-up scans – During this treatment patient is asked to visit the neurosurgeon occasionally and needs to have imaging tests periodically.  
2. Radiotherapy –This therapy has been used as the primary treatment for skull base meningioma. During this therapy, X-rays and other forms of radiation are used to destroy or prevent the growth of the cancer cells.
3. Surgery – This is the most common mode of treatment for skull base meningioma. To open the skull and remove the tumour, a craniotomy is performed by a surgeon. A Pathologist will examine a biopsy of tissue to determine the grade of the tumour. Though total removal of the tumour can provide a cure for skull base meningioma, it is not possible at all times. The tumor position determines exactly how much of the tumour can be carefully removed. If the tumor cannot be totally resected, radiation can treat the remnants of the tumor.

FAQs

Q1. How to treat skull base tumors?

Skull base tumors are treated with a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and sometimes chemotherapy, depending on the type, size, and location. Minimally invasive techniques like endoscopic or keyhole surgery are often used to reduce risk and improve recovery. A multidisciplinary team decides the best approach.

Q2. What is the success rate of brain tumor treatment?

The success rate varies based on tumor type, grade, and how early it is detected. Benign brain tumors have high success rates after surgery. Malignant tumors, like glioblastomas, are more challenging, but treatment can help extend life and improve quality of life significantly.

Q3. How serious is a skull base tumor?

Skull base tumors can be serious due to their location near vital brain structures, nerves, and blood vessels. Even benign tumors can cause complications if they grow large. However, many skull base tumors can be treated effectively with modern techniques.

Q4. How long can you live with a skull base tumor?

Lifespan depends on the tumor type (benign or malignant), size, and treatment. Many people with benign skull base tumors live a normal life after treatment. Malignant tumors may require ongoing care, but early treatment can improve survival chances.

Q5. How long does it take to recover from a head tumor?

Recovery time varies. After surgery, most patients recover in 4 to 8 weeks, though full recovery—including regaining strength and normal activities—may take longer depending on the complexity of the surgery and follow-up treatments like radiation or rehab.

Q6. Which stage of brain tumor is curable?

Low-grade (Grade I or II) brain tumors are often curable, especially if completely removed through surgery. Higher-grade (Grade III or IV) tumors are more aggressive and harder to cure, but early and aggressive treatment can control the disease and improve outcomes.