aivoksen

Aivoksen is a term used in Finnish colloquial language to refer to a brain tumor, i.e., any abnormal growth within the brain tissue. It is not a formal clinical term; the medically correct term is aivokasvain (brain tumor). Aivokasvaimet can be benign or malignant and may originate in different parts of the brain or its coverings.

Classification of aivokasvaimet depends on histology and location. Common categories include glial tumors such as astrocytomas and glioblastomas, oligodendrogliomas, and other primary brain tumors like meningiomas, schwannomas, and medulloblastomas. Malignant tumors tend to grow more quickly and may invade surrounding brain tissue, while benign tumors may cause symptoms mainly by exerting pressure on adjacent structures.

Typical symptoms arise from increased intracranial pressure or focal neurological deficits and can include persistent headaches, new or changing seizures, weakness or numbness on one side of the body, speech or visual disturbances, and cognitive or personality changes. Symptoms vary with tumor type, size, and location.

Diagnosis usually begins with neurological examination and imaging studies, most often magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast. Computed tomography (CT) can be used when MRI is not available. A biopsy or surgical sample is often required to determine the exact histology and grade, which guides treatment planning.

Treatment is individualized and may involve surgery to remove or debulk the tumor, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and, in some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy. Prognosis is highly dependent on tumor type and grade, with malignant gliomas generally having a more challenging course than benign tumors. Ongoing research aims to improve diagnostic methods and treatment options. See also brain tumor, glioma, meningioma.