Brain Cancer Rehabilitation

Paper Summary:

In this article, the writer discusses that brain cancer, unlike other cancers, possesses certain characteristics that make physical therapy treatment similar to that of treatments of other brain injuries such as strokes or trauma. The writer notes that while the prospect and dread associated with brain tumors is understandable, timely diagnosis, surgery, post-operative cancer eradication and expedient physical therapy can restore functionality, independence and productivity. The writer looks at the different kinds of brain cancer and then examines diagnosis matters and different types of treatment and therapy.

Outline:
Overview
Types of Brain Cancer
Pathogenesis
Signs and Symptoms
Diagnosis
Treatment
Impairments, Functional Limitations and Disabilities
Physical Therapy Treatment
Conclusion

From the Paper:

"Clinical suspicion of a brain tumor and possible localization through clinical neurological physical findings should lead to a means of visualizing the central nervous system in the least invasive manner possible. The gold standard for diagnosis would ideally be biopsy of the tumor; however, such procedures may jeopardize the patient's life, if at all impractical for most tumors lying deep within the brain parenchyma. However, these may be indicated when diagnostic imaging fails to convey a definite impression and a biopsy, with all risks and benefits carefully weighed and preliminary medical treatment to prevent brain herniation undertaken. Moreover, a biopsy of the lesion must be able to show that in being done, it will affect subsequent medical treatment."

Sample of Sources Used:

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