Do I have brain cancer?

Question

I have a ganglioglioma - Temporal lobe, non-malignant. Do I have brain cancer? or does it have to be malignant to be considered cancer?

Answer 1

Ask your doctor.

Not the various quacks that hang around here.

Answer 2

These rare, benign tumors arise from ganglia-type cells, which are groups of nerve cells. Gangliocytomas (also called ganglioneuromas) are tumors of mature ganglion cells. Gangliogliomas are tumors of both mature nerve and supportive cells.The most common sites are the temporal lobe of the cerebral hemispheres and the third ventricle, although they might also occur in the spine. Cyst formation and calcification (mineral deposits) may be present in some cases. Seizures are generally the most common symptom. These tumors are small, slow growing, and have distinct margins. Metastasis (spread to other parts of the central nervous system) and malignancy are very rare.

Following a complete resection of the tumor, chances of long-term survival are near 100 percent. If the surgeon could not remove the entire tumor, sometimes radiation therapy is necessary. The prognosis still remains very high, 80-90 percent.


Surgery is the standard treatment for both gangliocytoma and ganglioglioma. Radiation therapy may be required if there is remaining tumor after surgery.


New radiation techniques that minimize damage to healthy tissue that surrounds brain tumor tissue are under investigation.

So be rest assured.

Answer 3

Only malignant growths are classified as Cancer. You will be advised as to how often you should see the Doctors to ensure that things remain non-malignant. May be once a year or twice or in two years, etc. Stop worrying about it .

Answer 4

Well, firstly, sorry to hear that, it sounds quite painful. If you research it on google, you'll be able to find out more information, however if it's non-malignant, that usually means it's not cancerous... Basically the below information indicates that it's benign tumours..

This is off a website.....
Gangliogliomas are generally benign tumors, composed of transformed neuronal and glial elements, with rare malignant progression of the glial component.


-KiKi

Answer 5

A lot doctors wont call brain tumors cancerous or not. They are all tumors and none are ok. Its risky even if its benign.
With that being said grade 1 and 2 are slow growing or not growing tumors. Grade 3 and 4 are faster growing and more serious.
Talk to your doctor about surgery thats generally all low grade tumors need for treatment. Or if they are just going to watch it for changes.
Good luck Im sure you must be very scared.