On World Brain Tumour Day, Apollo Gleneagles Hospitals, Kolkata organized a discussion on Emergent Treatment Frontiers in Brain Tumours

The event featured presentations by leading specialists about the latest advancements in the treatment of pituitary and brain tumours, and was followed by an announcement of a successful surgery undertaken by the team of hospital’s team of surgeons.

The patient, a 59 year old man, reported with a history of frequent falls about three months ago. A known patient of diabetes, hypertension and hypothyroidism, detailed clinical examination revealed that he was suffering from visual field defect on one half of both his eyes. An MRI of his brain showed a large tumour (pituitary macroadenoma) in the Sellar region of the skull, with Suprasellar extensions. While his hormonal profile was normal, a surgical removal of the tumour was necessary as it was quite large, and exerting significant pressure on the centre of the optic nerves, resulting in the vision defects. The team of surgeons, led by Dr S.N. Singh, Head of the Department of Neurosurgery at the hospital, excised the tumour through the patient’s nose using an endoscope and microscope. A subsequent biopsy of the tumour, classified as a WHO GRADE I tumour, confirmed the radiological diagnosis. The patient’s field of vision is improving, and he is well on the path of recovery.

Dr. Singh observed, “A tumour in the brain, or on the pituitary gland, given the sensitive nature of these key structures, poses a major risk to our overall wellbeing, irrespective of whether it is cancerous or not. A time bound, multidisciplinary intervention, utilizing the latest treatment options covering surgery, and subsequent chemotherapy and radiotherapy (if required), can help us maintain the patient’s quality of life and ensure best outcomes.”

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Rupali Basu, President and CEO ER, Apollo Hospitals Group, India, said, “On one hand, while research continues on the identification of the causative factors that can lead to a tumour of the brain or the pituitary gland, we see significant advancements being made in the area of available treatments. As a result, today we have access to the most advanced facilities, which allow us to deliver state-of-the-art excellence, and save precious lives. Patients can now look to a life beyond brain tumour , a life that is healthy and productive.”

Popular singers Emon and Surojit were present on the occasion.