by Dr. Aniruddha Tekkatte Jagannatha
The importance of timely diagnosis and appropriate treatment of brain tumors cannot be overstated.
A recent case at Aster RV Hospital underscores this critical message, demonstrating how early intervention can restore a patient’s quality of life and bring relief to their loved ones. Patient Radhika (name changed), a 47-year-old woman, presented with a variety of concerning symptoms over several months. Initially, she experienced memory impairment, mood changes, and reduced speech output, which her husband noticed. She also suffered from hallucinations, weight gain, and excessive sleep. Additionally, Radhika had been experiencing intermittent headaches and urinary incontinence for six months. These symptoms led her to consult a psychiatrist, who realized that her condition was not psychiatric in nature. She was then referred to a neurosurgeon for further evaluation.
An MRI revealed a large tumor, measuring 7 to 8 centimeters, originating from the meninges, the protective covering of the brain. This meningioma was exerting pressure on the frontal lobes of her brain, leading to a condition known as bi-frontal dysfunction. The frontal lobes are crucial for executive functions and decision-making, and their impairment can result in significant personality changes and psychiatric symptoms.
Dr. Aniruddha Tekkatte Jagannatha, Consultant - Neurosurgery, explains, “The frontal lobes are one of the largest and most developed parts of the human brain, responsible for executive decisions and behavior regulation. Dysfunction in this area due to tumors like meningiomas or gliomas can lead to psychiatric symptoms such as mood changes, abnormal behavior, and personality alterations. These symptoms are often misdiagnosed, delaying the correct treatment.”
Radhika underwent a successful bifrontal craniotomy, guided by navigation and tumor fluorescence technology, allowing for complete excision of the tumor. Remarkably, within weeks of the surgery, she returned to her normal self, much to the relief and joy of her family.
“The early detection and diagnosis of brain tumors, followed by a comprehensive treatment plan, are crucial for managing these conditions effectively,” emphasizes Dr. Aniruddha. “Our patient’s case illustrates how timely medical intervention can lead to significant improvements in health outcomes, enabling patients to regain their normal lives.”
Diagnosis and Treatment
With the advances in Neurosurgery, techniques and technology, nowadays, brain tumor surgeries are becoming less complicated. The Intra operative adjuncts like neuro-navigation, tumor fluorescence, microscopes and intraop neuro monitoring makes these brain tumor surgeries safe wherein only the tumor is removed and the surrounding healthy brain parenchyma is saved so that the patient can get back to normal life at the earliest.
Most of the times when patients with benign tumors like meningiomas undergo successful complete removal, will lead a healthy normal life. However, long term follow-up with your neuro surgeron is a must
Radhika’s successful treatment and recovery highlight the critical need for awareness, early diagnosis, and specialized care in managing brain tumors. Her case serves as a powerful reminder of the life-saving impact of timely medical intervention
