A brain tumour is an abnormal mass or growth in the brain or the Central Nervous System (CNS). There are several types of brain tumours; both benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous) brain tumours can occur. Primary brain tumours start in the brain; secondary (metastatic) brain tumours start in other regions of the body and spread to the brain. How quickly a brain tumour spreads can vary significantly as it all depends on the pace of development and location of the tumour.

Local brain invasion, compression of nearby tissues and increased intracranial pressure can all cause symptoms and signs of brain tumours (ICP). In addition to tumour histology, clinical symptoms are dictated by the function of the affected brain regions. A careful history, extensive neurologic examination and suitable diagnostic neuroimaging procedures are required for the accurate assessment of a patient with suspected brain tumour.

Neuroimaging Features
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) with contrast is the optimal study for the evaluation of brain tumours.

Computed tomography (CT) has much lower soft-tissue resolution and is relied upon primarily in emergency settings for a more detailed view of bony structures and in patients with contraindication to MRI.