MenuTypes of Tumors
There are over 120 types of brain tumors. The most common are listed below, however if you don't see your tumor type please call our CareLine at 800-886-ABTA (2282) for more information.
A note regarding prognosis (prediction of life expectancy): While we have included prognosis information for some types of tumors, each person’s tumor is different. Emerging information about biological differences in tumors may explain why outcomes for some people are different than others. We recommend that you discuss prognosis for your specific tumor type with your physician.
Germ cell tumors arise from various “germ cells” found in the pineal or suprasellar regions of the brain.
Glioblastomas are tumors that arise from astrocytes—the star-shaped cells that make up the “glue-like,” or supportive tissue of the brain. These tumors are usually highly malignant (cancerous) because the cells reproduce quickly and they are supported by a large network of blood vessels.
“Glioma” is a general term used to identify any tumor that arises from the supportive (“gluey”) tissue of the brain. The three main types of gliomas are: astrocytoma, oligodendromas, and ependymomas.