Brain Cancer
Brain cancer is a general term used to describe many types of tumors that start in the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system, or CNS). Tumors in different areas of the CNS may be treated differently. Most brain tumors come from cancers that started somewhere else in the body and metastasized, or spread, to the brain. Primary brain tumors are tumors that begin in the brain, and may start in any of the different types of tissues or cells within the brain or spinal cord.
The diagnosis of a tumor begins when common symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, headaches, behavioral or emotional changes, impaired judgment, and/or sensory changes develop. If symptoms suggest a CNS tumor is present, your doctor will take a complete medical history and perform a physical examination to evaluate brain and spinal cord function (neurologic exam).
In order to see where within the brain a tumor may be located, doctors most often use magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans. While these tests may help your healthcare professional find any unusual masses, a definite diagnosis is made only by removing some of the tumor tissue for examination, called a biopsy.
Central nervous system (CNS) tumors may be treated by surgical removal, radiation therapy, or chemotherapy, although a combination of treatments is common. Cortisone-like drugs are given to reduce the swelling that often occurs around brain tumors, which may help to relieve headaches and other symptoms.
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National Brain Tumor Foundation 
Nonprofit organization provides information about brain tumors and treatment; malignant and benign brain tumors, brain tumor medical centers, the latest brain tumor clinical trials, survivor support network. Also gives details on "Angel Adventure Walks" and Racing Ahead® NBTF events across the country.
National Cancer Institute — Brain Cancer Information 
Government resource for the latest information on clinical trials, tips on prevention, helpful tools for screening and testing, plus up-to-date statistics and research.
Caring4Cancer 
Patient-created, patient-friendly information on diagnosis, treatment, tips on day-to-day living, plus helpful resources for caregivers. Also offers a unique support program for survivors.
MayoClinic.com
Not-for-profit hospital offers an introduction for those newly diagnosed with cancer; includes step-by-step information about signs and symptoms, causes, risk factors, and screening techniques.
MedlinePlus
Developed by government agencies and other health organizations, this site contains information about drugs, an illustrated medical encyclopedia, lots of interactive patient tutorials, and the latest health news. Also features a "guide to healthy web surfing."
National Cancer Institute — Detailed Online Booklet 
A detailed online booklet listing possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation, and coping techniques for brain cancer.
MedlinePlus Tutorials
Unique audio and visual slide show tutorial gives basic information on brain cancer, featuring simple controls.
Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure
Not-for-profit site dedicated to advancing research programs, awards, and collaboration.
