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Malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

A malignant brain tumour is a type of cancer that starts in the brain or spreads into the brain from another area of the body.

About this information

This NHS content is written for people in England. Services, entitlements and contact routes may differ in other countries.

Symptoms of a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

Symptoms

Causes of a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

Causes

Causes of a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

Prevention

Tests and next steps for a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

Diagnosis

Treatment for a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

Medical treatments

The symptoms of a malignant brain tumour can include fits (seizures), headaches, feeling sick (nausea), changes to vision and personality changes.

It's not always known what causes a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer). You may be more at risk if you're over 85 or have a family history.

You cannot always prevent a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer), but eating healthily, losing weight and quitting smoking may help.

If a GP or specialist thinks you could have a brain tumour, you'll usually be referred for further tests in hospital, such as a scan of your brain.

Surgery is the main treatment for a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer). You may also have chemotherapy, radiotherapy or medicines for the symptoms.

Main symptoms of a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

The symptoms of a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer) can vary depending on the type of tumour, where it is in the brain, what's causing it and how quickly it's growing.

Common symptoms may include:

  • new headaches, or headaches that are getting worse – these usually happen with other symptoms
  • feeling sick (nausea) or being sick (vomiting) when moving suddenly – this usually happens with other symptoms
  • fits (seizures)
  • eye problems that are getting worse, such as blurred vision, seeing dots and lines or flashes of light, or not being able to see out of the corners of your eyes
  • being very sleepy or fainting (losing consciousness)
  • changes to behaviour or personality, such as problems with thinking and concentration

See a GP if:

  • you have headaches that keep coming back, make you feel sick, or do not go away when you take painkillers
  • you feel sick often or it does not get better after a few days

Ask for an urgent GP appointment or get help from NHS 111 if:

  • you have changes in your vision, such as seeing dots, flashing lights or blurred vision
  • you've been vomiting for more than 2 days
  • you're worried about new or unusual symptoms, but are not sure where to get help

You can call 111 or get help from 111 online .

Call 999 or go to A&E if someone:

  • has a headache that came on suddenly and is extremely painful
  • has a fit (seizure) for the first time, it lasts longer than usual for them, or it lasts longer than 5 minutes if you do not know how long their seizures usually last
  • is seriously injured during a fit (seizure)
  • faints (loses consciousness) and does not wake up or they're finding it difficult to breathe
Find your nearest A&E

Who is more likely to get a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

It's not always clear what causes a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer).

Anyone can get it, but you may be more at risk if you:

  • are over 85 years old
  • are very overweight or living with obesity
  • have a close relative who has had a brain tumour
  • have a genetic condition that increases the risk of brain tumours, such as neurofibromatosis type 1, neurofibromatosis type 2 or tuberous sclerosis

Many cancers are also linked to lifestyle.

Information

Find out more

How to lower your risk of a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

You cannot always prevent a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer), but there are things you can do to lower your chance of getting it.

Do

Main tests for a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

If the GP or specialist thinks you might have a brain tumour, they'll probably refer you for further tests at the hospital.

This is usually a scan of your brain to see if you have a tumour, such as:

Main treatments for a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

A malignant brain tumour (brain cancer) is often treatable. But it can be difficult to treat.

The treatment you have will depend on:

  • the size and type of tumour you have
  • where it is
  • if it has spread
  • your general health

It may include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, and medicines to help with the symptoms.

The specialist care team looking after you will:

  • explain the treatments, benefits and side effects
  • work with you to create a treatment plan that is best for you
  • help you manage the side effects of treatment

You'll have regular check-ups during and after any treatments. You may also have tests and scans.

If you have any symptoms or side effects that you're worried about, talk to your specialists. You do not need to wait for your next check-up.

Where to find help and support for a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer)

If you have a malignant brain tumour (brain cancer), your specialist treatment team will be there to support you throughout your treatment. They will also be able to give you information about local support services you may find helpful.

There are also national cancer charities that can offer support and information about brain tumours.

The Brain Tumour Charity

Brain Tumour Research

Brainstrust

Little Brainstrust (for children)

Macmillan

Information and support for anyone affected by cancer.

Cancer Research UK

Information and support for anyone affected by cancer.

Marie Curie

Care and support for anyone affected by terminal illness.

Content supplied by the NHS website

Content supplied by the NHS website, refreshed 19 August 2026. View the original NHS article ↗

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