Best Hospitals for Brain tumor treatment in the World 2024

What Is a Brain Tumor?

A brain tumor is an abnormal growth of cells in the brain or its surrounding tissues. It can affect brain function and lead to various symptoms depending on where and how large it is. Clinical trials show that approximately 72% of all brain tumors are benign, while the rest (28%) of cases diagnosed report to have a malignant nature.

What Is the Difference Between a Brain Tumor and Brain Cancer?

All brain cancers are brain tumors, but not all brain tumors are cancer.

• Brain Tumor. Any abnormal growth of cells in the brain. It can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

• Brain Cancer refers to malignant tumors that multiply, invade nearby tissue, and can spread to other parts of the body.

What Are the Tumor Types?

Brain and spinal cord (also known as central nervous system or CNS) tumors can fall into 2 main types: benign and malignant. Each type includes various specific tumors, each with unique characteristics and treatments.

Benign Brain Tumors

Benign types of tumors are non-cancerous and typically grow slowly. While they do not spread to other body parts, their size and location within the brain can cause serious health problems.

Malignant Tumors

Malignant tumors are cancerous and tend to grow rapidly.

✅Finding the best treatment for brain neoplasms involves evaluating various options, such as surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy, depending on the tumor's type, size, and location.

How Common Are Primary Brain Tumors?

Primary brain tumors are relatively uncommon. They originate in the brain or tissues close to it, such as the brain-covering membranes (meninges), nerves, pituitary gland, or pineal gland. They occur at a rate of about 6 cases per 100,000 people annually. Approximately 24,000 new cases of primary abnormalities are diagnosed each year in the United States.

❗ They can occur at any age but are more common in older adults and children.

Secondary brain tumors, also known as metastatic ones, are cancers that start elsewhere in the body and spread to the brain. These tumors are more common than primary abnormalities and often originate from lung, breast, kidney, or skin cancers. Up to 40% of patients (around 1.5 million people every year) are at risk of developing brain metastases.

How Do the Best Neuro-Oncology Hospitals Treat Brain Cancer?

Surgical Approaches

• Awake craniotomy technique

During the surgery, a patient remains conscious and follows the neurosurgeon's recommendations. This allows the detection of brain areas that control vital functions of an organism and avoids their damage. Surgery is conducted under local anesthesia, which is why the operation is painless for a patient.

• Transnasal removal of a tumor

It is used to remove the brain neoplasm without surgery. A doctor does not make any incision but removes neoplasm through the sinuses.

• Neuroendoscopy

A tumor is removed through 1.5-2 cm openings in the skull. This procedure reduces the injury rate and shortens postoperative rehabilitation. Endoscopic tools penetrate hard-to-reach distant brain areas while applying other surgical methods. The procedure requires special microsurgical equipment and a high degree of neurosurgeon skills.

Non-Surgical Approaches

• Radiotherapy and stereotactic radiosurgery

Among the non-invasive care options are CyberKnife and Truebeam with Novalis linear accelerator (state-of-the-art modification of GammaKnife). These systems influence the neoplasm cells with radioactive irradiation and destroy them.

• Chemotherapy

In addition to standard chemotherapy, the best neurosurgery hospitals in the world often use intracranial chemotherapy for cancerous types. A surgeon places special plates with a drug right in the brain. It reduces side effects and damage to the rest of the organs. Intracranial chemotherapy is considered a new treatment for brain tumors.

❗These options are not standard. They are appointed individually after a consultation with a doctor.

What Causes Brain Tumors?

Cancer is mainly caused by gene damage inside cells. While the exact reasons for brain cancer are often unknown, research has identified some risk factors. Cancer occurs when genes that control cell growth are damaged, activating oncogenes or deactivating tumor suppressor genes. These gene damages are more likely to happen during a person's lifetime rather than being inherited.

• 🧬 Genetics. Certain genetic conditions can increase the likelihood of developing brain abnormalities. For example, neurofibromatosis and Li-Fraumeni syndrome are linked to higher rates of brain cancer.

• 🩻 Radiation Exposure. A history of exposure to ionizing radiation can increase the risk of developing brain tumors. This can include previous treatment with radiation or presence in nuclear accidents. Radiotherapy, which involves the use of ionizing radiation to target abnormal brain cells, is a treatment method used to kill cancer cells and shrink tumors.

• 🩺 Family History. If a close relative has had a tumor, the likelihood of developing brain tumors is higher.

Is Brain Tumor Hereditary?

Brain tumors can sometimes have a hereditary component, but in many cases, the exact cause remains unclear. Some types, including gliomas and meningiomas, have been found to occur more frequently in families with a history of these tumors. Around 5% of gliomas occur with familial features.

Research on a family with two siblings diagnosed with Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) identified 85 gene variations not present in their healthy parents. This suggests a vital genetic component in GBM development. While GBM can have hereditary aspects, it involves complex genetic factors. 

Who Is at Risk of Developing Brain Abnormalities?

Several factors can influence the risk of developing a brain tumor:

Studies show that lifestyle and diet can affect a patient's risk of getting a brain tumor. The additional factors include:

• Heavy alcohol consumption;

• Smoking;

• Eating fruits and vegetables with N-nitroso compounds (like processed meats, smoked foods, and preserved vegetables).

What Are the Symptoms of a Brain Tumor?

The symptoms of a brain tumor can vary widely based on the tumor's size, location, and growth rate. Common symptoms include:

How Long Do Brain Tumors Take to Develop?

Brain tumor symptoms can appear gradually over time or come on suddenly. It depends on how quickly the tumor grows. Some tumors grow very slowly and might not cause symptoms for years (maybe 5 to 10 years). Other tumors grow faster and can cause symptoms within weeks or months.

Are There Cases Where Brain Tumors Do Not Cause Symptoms?

Some cancer patients do not show any symptoms. Several factors can explain this:

• Small Size;

• Location;

• Slow Growth;

• Benign Nature;

• Early Stage.

Asymptomatic tumors are often found accidentally during imaging studies for other reasons, such as head injuries or unrelated medical issues.

❗Regular medical check-ups are essential.

How Big Can a Brain Neoplasm Get?

The maximum size a brain tumor can reach depends on multiple factors, including:

• Rate of growth;

• Available space within the skull;

• The time it took for the cancer to grow.

❗Large tumors can cause increased intracranial pressure, leading to severe symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and neurological deficits.

What Are the Diagnostic Procedures Abroad?

Before the development of a treatment plan, doctors appoint diagnostic procedures. Depending on the symptoms and type of a suspected tumor, a tumor center may order:

• Blood and urine tests;

• Consultation with an ophthalmologist;

• Examination of the eyeground;

• MRI (with or without contrast);

• PET-CT;

• Tumor biopsy.

Specialists apply a safe biopsy method: a neurosurgeon uses a thin needle through a small 3-4 mm incision to obtain a tissue sample for analysis.

Suppose a patient has undergone treatment in another hospital and wants a second medical opinion. In that case, showing a neurosurgeon all the medical records and MRI images is necessary.

Which Blood Tests Are Necessary To Confirm a Brain Tumor Diagnosis?

🧪While blood tests alone cannot confirm a brain tumor, they are crucial for checking a patient's overall health and ruling out other conditions during diagnosis. Standard blood tests used include:

1. Complete Blood Count (CBC). Measures the levels of red and white blood cells and platelets to check for infections, anemia, and overall health.

2. Blood Chemistry Tests. These evaluate the function of vital organs such as the liver and kidneys and check for electrolytes and blood sugar levels imbalances.

3. Tumor Markers. Although not specific to brain abnormalities, certain markers (like CEA, CA 19-9, and AFP) can indicate the presence of cancer in the body.

4. Hormone Levels. If a pituitary adenoma is suspected, blood tests for hormone levels such as prolactin, growth hormone, and ACTH are necessary.

5. Lactate Dehydrogenase (LDH). Elevated levels can be associated with certain types of cancer.

6. Erythrocyte Sedimentation Rate (ESR) and C-reactive Protein (CRP). Elevated levels can indicate inflammation, which may be associated with cancer or other conditions.

How to Treat Brain Tumor?

The National Cancer Institute recommends different methods depending on the tumor type, where it is, how big it is, and the patient's health.

• Surgery. Аims to remove as much of the tumor as possible without harming vital brain functions. 

• Radiation Therapy. High-energy rays target tumor cells. The Gamma Knife provides precise, non-invasive treatment. Proton-beam therapy targets tumor cells while sparing healthy tissue. Tomotherapy and CyberKnife accurately target tumors, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues.

• Chemotherapy. Drugs like temozolomide kill or stop the growth of cancer cells and can be taken orally or through an IV. It's commonly used for aggressive tumors like glioblastomas.

• Targeted Therapy. Drugs like bevacizumab target specific molecules in tumor growth, sparing normal cells. This is often used for recurrent tumors.

• Immunotherapy. Boosts the immune system to fight the tumor. Drugs like pembrolizumab are used for brain metastases.

• Supportive Care. Manages symptoms like seizures, swelling, and pain with medications. Rehabilitation, including physical, occupational, and speech therapy, helps patients recover lost functions.

• Clinical Trials. Offer access to new, experimental treatments. Patients with rare tumors might join trials for new therapies.

Thus, there's no best brain cancer treatment in the world. The doctors choose and combine methods to achieve positive outcomes.

What Are the Potential Side Effects of Brain Tumor Treatments?

Brain tumor treatments can cause different side effects based on the treatment type and tumor location. It's essential to know these potential effects to handle them well. Doctors aim to manage these side effects to ensure patients have the best quality of life possible.

What Are the Chances of Recurrence After Completing Treatment for a Brain Tumor?

Brain tumors can return after treatment, especially aggressive ones like glioblastoma. Many tumors grow back near the original site. Factors like age, sex, and tumor size affect the risk of recurrence. Even after treatment, the chance of a brain tumor coming back is high. In a study involving 68 patients with recurrent GBM, 69% experienced local recurrences within 1-2 centimeters of the initial tumor area. 

Ependymoma is another type of brain tumor that can recur. In a study, doctors removed the whole tumor in 42.5% of cases and only part in 57.5%. Even with treatment, the tumor often came back. The median disease-free survival (DFS) was 22.42 months. After 1, 2, and 3 years, the chances of no recurrence were 58.5%, 41%, and 30.7%.

What Is Brain Tumor Surgery?

Brain tumor surgery involves the surgical removal of abnormal growths in the brain to improve health by reducing symptoms like headaches and seizures.

The main goal is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without harming critical brain functions.

Performed by a neurosurgeon, the surgery typically involves a craniotomy, where part of the skull is temporarily removed to access the brain. The surgeon uses advanced imaging technologies like MRI and CT scans to guide the operation.

As with any major surgery, there are risks, including:

• Infection;

• Bleeding;

• Potential damage to surrounding brain tissue can lead to neurological deficits.

Hospital stays usually last 3-10 days, and full recovery can take weeks to months, depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient's overall health.

How Much Do Procedures for Brain Tumors Cost?

These costs represent typical prices and can vary based on the specific hospital, geographic location, and individual patient needs. 

How Long Does Treating Brain Tumors Typically Last?

Each patient's treatment plan is individualized, and the duration can vary based on the specific circumstances and response to treatment.

The Johns Hopkins Brain Tumor Center affiliates recommend treatments tailored to the tumor's type, size, location, and overall health.

Where Are the Best Brain Cancer Treatment Centers Located?

The best brain tumor hospitals in Europe are in Europe are located in Turkey, Israel, and Spain. They have cutting-edge technology, skilled neurosurgeons, and specialized facilities.

Here's a brief overview of the pros and cons of different countries:

Turkey

Benefits:

• Cost-effective treatment. Turkey provides high-quality medical care at significantly lower prices than Western countries, making it an attractive option for patients seeking affordable treatment.

• Modern medical infrastructure. The best neurosurgery hospitals in the world are equipped with cutting-edge technology like Gamma Knife and CyberKnife for brain tumor treatments, and many are internationally accredited.

• Experienced medical professionals. Turkish neurosurgeons often have extensive training, including international experience, which enhances their ability to handle complex cases.

• Support for international patients. Turkey is highly focused on medical tourism, offering services like language assistance and help with travel arrangements.

Risks:

• Language barriers. Although most major brain cancer treatment centers offer translation services, communication difficulties could still exist, especially in non-specialized clinics.

• Quality variability. The standard of care may vary across different hospitals, so it’s essential to carefully research and select the suitable facility.

• Travel logistics. Patients may need to return for follow-up treatments, which can be inconvenient and costly for those coming from abroad.

Israel

Benefits:

• Top-tier medical expertise. Israel is renowned for its advanced medical research and innovative approaches, particularly in oncology and neurology, offering world-class specialists in brain tumor care.

• Access to the latest technology. The best brain cancer hospitals in Israel use the most advanced treatment options, including robotic surgery, stereotactic radiosurgery (CyberKnife), and personalized therapies based on genetic profiling.

• Personalized treatment plans. Israeli hospitals often create customized care plans tailored to the patient's specific needs and genetic makeup, improving the chances of success.

• High success rates. Israel’s use of cutting-edge medical techniques results in high success rates for brain tumor treatments.

Risks:

• Higher treatment costs. While Israel offers exceptional care, the costs are typically higher (the average cost is $12,000) than in Turkey (the average cost is $9,000) and can approach those of Western countries, though still more affordable than the U.S.

• Longer waiting periods. Due to the high demand for specialized care, getting an appointment or surgery from brain tumor specialists might take longer.

• Regional instability. Though generally safe for medical travelers, Israel’s geopolitical situation might concern some patients, even though major medical centers are unaffected.

Spain

Benefits:

• Well-established healthcare system. Spain offers a robust healthcare system with a highly regarded public and the best neurosurgery hospitals in Europe.

• Skilled neurosurgeons. Spanish hospitals employ experienced neurosurgeons, using advanced technologies like MR-guided surgery and proton therapy to treat brain tumors effectively.

• Affordable treatment options. Although slightly more expensive than Turkey, Spain remains affordable compared to the U.S. and other Western European countries.

• Ideal recovery environment. Spain’s mild climate and excellent rehabilitation facilities make it appealing for post-treatment recovery and long-term care.

Risks:

• Limited access to cutting-edge treatments. While Spain offers high-quality care, it may not have the same level of access to experimental or highly specialized treatments that are more readily available in Israel.

• Language limitations. While many doctors in private hospitals speak English, public hospitals may have limited language support, potentially complicating communication.

• Travel and follow-up challenges. As with Turkey, international patients may find managing follow-up treatments and consultations challenging, especially if multiple visits are required.

These countries offer different prices for treating brain neoplasms. Still, the quality of therapy remains at about the same level because all procedures are performed according to strict international treatment protocols. The cost varies due to the country's general price policy and local citizens' income.

How to Choose the Best Hospital for a Brain Tumor?

When looking for the best brain tumor hospital in world, consider the following:

• Location. Pick a hospital that’s easy to reach in your country, especially if you need urgent surgery.

• Neurosurgeon’s qualifications. Look for experienced doctors with training from top brain cancer centers, certifications, and positive patient reviews. The best hospitals use robotic surgery, which improves accuracy and shortens recovery time.

• Advanced technology. Ensure the hospital has a neuronavigation system, which helps guide the surgeon’s movements and reduces the risk of damaging healthy brain tissue during surgery.

• Success rates. Check the hospital’s recovery rates and long-term outcomes for brain tumor removal before making your choice.

By focusing on these critical factors—location, doctor expertise, technology, and success rates—you can choose the best hospital for brain tumor care.

💚On Bookimed, patients can find a curated list of the top 10 brain tumor treatment centers in the world. These centers represent a high recovery rate and long life expectancy after surgery.

What Is the Best Hospital for Brain Tumors?

The following medical facilities have extensive expertise in brain tumor research. They affiliate with the world's top 10 brain tumor treatment centers, delivering hope to newly diagnosed or advanced brain cancer patients.

Turkey

1. Anadolu Medical Center;

2. Memorial Şişli Hospital;

3. Medipol Mega University Hospital.

Israel

1. Sourasky Medical Center (Ichilov);

2. Rambam Medical Center.

Spain

1. Centro Médico Teknon;

2. SJD Barcelona Children’s Hospital;

3. HM Hospitales.

Germany

1. Medical Center in Solingen;

2. Nordwest Clinic (Krankenhaus).

Patients worldwide seek care at these facilities, where personalized treatment plans and state-of-the-art equipment offer the best chances for recovery and improved quality of life.

How to Make an Appointment in the Best Hospital for a Brain Tumor?

If you want to schedule a visit to the tumor center, follow these steps:

1. Learn info about the best brain tumor treatment centers listed on this page.

2. Request a personalized selection process to choose the most suitable tumor center, ensuring your unique needs are met. The Bookimed coordinator contacts you to answer all your questions and schedule the date of your arrival at the brain tumor treatment hospital.

Bookimed cooperates directly with the best brain tumor treatment centers in the world, So Its services are free for patients.

What Is the Prognosis for Brain Tumor Patients?

The prognosis for brain tumor patients depends on the tumor type and other factors. For benign tumors like meningiomas, the 5-year survival rate is over 90%. Malignant tumors, such as glioblastomas, have a median survival time of 12-18 months and a 5-year survival rate of about 5%. Early detection and advanced treatments can improve outcomes.

Can a Brain Tumor Be Cured?

Whether a brain tumor can be cured depends on its type, location, and how early it is detected. Benign tumors like meningiomas can often be removed entirely, leading to a cure. Malignant tumors, such as glioblastomas, are more challenging to cure and usually require ongoing treatment to manage. That's why finding the best hospital for glioblastoma treatment is complex.

Is It Possible to Live a Fulfilling Life with a Brain Tumor?

Yes, one can live life with a brain tumor, especially if it is benign and treated well. Many people with benign tumors, like meningiomas, lead everyday lives after treatment. Even with malignant tumors, modern treatments can help manage the condition, allowing some patients to maintain a good quality of life. 

✅ Regular check-ups are essential for managing symptoms and preventing complications.

What is the Life Expectancy of a Person with a Brain Tumor?

Benign tumors like meningiomas generally have a good prognosis, especially if successfully removed. Malignant tumors, such as glioblastomas, have a more challenging outlook with shorter survival times. The location and size of the tumor, along with access to advanced treatments, also play critical roles in determining life expectancy.

• ❗ Grade 1 and 2 tumors are considered "low-grade" or benign - they grow slowly and are less likely to spread.

• ❗ Grade 3 and 4 tumors are "high-grade" or malignant - they grow more rapidly and are more likely to spread to other brain parts.

References

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2. Clinical Biology of the Pituitary Adenoma / S. Melmed et al. Endocrine Reviews. 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.1210/endrev/bnac010 (date of access: 10.07.2024).

3. Medulloblastoma: A common pediatric tumor: Prognostic factors and predictors of outcome / L. Kumar et al. Asian Journal of Neurosurgery. 2015. Vol. 10, no. 1. P. 50. URL: https://doi.org/10.4103/1793-5482.151516 (date of access: 10.07.2024).

4. CBTRUS Statistical Report: Primary Brain and Other Central Nervous System Tumors Diagnosed in the United States in 2015–2019 / Q. T. Ostrom et al. Neuro-Oncology. 2022. Vol. 24, Supplement_5. P. v1–v95. URL: https://doi.org/10.1093/neuonc/noac202 (date of access: 10.07.2024).

5. Li-Fraumeni Syndrome: A Rare Genetic Disorder / F. Tazin et al. Cureus. 2022. URL: https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.29240 (date of access: 10.07.2024).

6. Prognostic factors and survival outcomes of intracranial ependymoma treated with multimodality approach / S. Gupta et al. Indian Journal of Medical and Paediatric Oncology. 2017. Vol. 38, no. 4. P. 420. URL: https://doi.org/10.4103/ijmpo.ijmpo_202_15 (date of access: 10.07.2024).