Skull Base Cancers
Skull base cancers are tumors located at the base of the skull, an area that includes essential structures like cranial nerves, blood vessels, and bones. These cancers can arise from the skull base itself (primary tumors) or spread from other regions (metastatic tumors). Skull base cancers are complex because they often involve critical areas that control vital functions such as vision, hearing, balance, and facial movement.
Symptoms of Skull Base Cancers:
Symptoms can vary widely depending on the tumor's location, size, and type but may include:
- Headaches – Often persistent or progressively worsening.
- Vision Changes – Blurry or double vision, or loss of peripheral vision.
- Hearing Loss – Partial or total hearing loss, sometimes affecting only one ear.
- Facial Numbness or Weakness – Due to involvement of cranial nerves.
- Difficulty Swallowing or Speaking – Caused by nerve compression.
- Balance Issues – Tumors pressing on structures affecting balance.
- Nasal Blockage or Nosebleeds – If the tumor affects sinuses or nasal passages.
- Hormonal Changes – Tumors near the pituitary gland can affect hormone levels.
Indications for Skull Base Cancer Treatment:
Indications for evaluating and treating skull base cancers depend on several factors, including symptoms, tumor size, location, and overall health. Common indications include:
- Progressive Symptoms – Worsening neurological or sensory symptoms.
- Tumor Growth – Imaging shows tumor growth or changes in tumor characteristics.
- Compression of Vital Structures – Tumors pressing on nerves, blood vessels, or brain tissue.
- Risk of Malignancy – Biopsy or imaging suggests malignant features.
- Hormonal Imbalances – Indicating pituitary or glandular involvement.
- Recurrent Infections or Obstructions – Tumors obstructing nasal or ear passages, causing chronic issues.