Brain Tumours

If you are experiencing symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice promptly.

What to expect at your initial consultation

Your consultant will ask about your symptoms and medical history. They will also carry out a neurological examination, checking your reflexes, balance, vision and cognition, as well as a physical examination.

Brain tumour testing

Your consultant may also recommend a series of tests to better understand your condition and guide treatment. You may have:

• MRI or CT scans: Imaging tests of your brain, and sometimes other parts of your body, to determine the size, location and extent of the tumour
• Biopsy: A small sample of tissue taken to confirm a diagnosis and check for cancer cells
• Lumbar puncture (spinal tap): A test of cerebrospinal fluid to check for abnormal cells, in selected cases
• Blood and genetic tests: To identify tumour markers or gene changes (mutations) that may help guide diagnosis and treatment
• Neuropsychological assessment: Evaluation of cognitive function before surgery to help plan treatment

A Team Approach to Care

Your care is led by specialist consultants across medical, surgical and neurological specialties and supported by experienced nurses and allied health professionals. This integrated team works together to ensure you receive coordinated, personalised care. Depending on your condition, your team may include:

• Neurologists and neurosurgeons
• Neuro-oncologists and neuroradiologists
• Neuropsychologists and neurophysiologists
• Endocrinologists, ophthalmologists and ENT surgeons
• Critical care consultants
• Speech and language therapists, physiotherapists and occupational therapists
• Palliative care specialists

Treatment for a brain tumour depends on the type, size, location and extent of the tumour, as well as your overall health. Your consultant may recommend:

Neurosurgery

Surgery is often a key treatment for brain tumours. This may involve removing all or part of the tumour or taking a small sample (biopsy) to confirm a diagnosis. Your consultant will recommend the most appropriate approach for you.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy uses targeted radiation to shrink or destroy tumour cells. Depending on your diagnosis, specially trained neurosurgeons or neuro-oncologists may deliver the therapy either externally, internally (brachytherapy) or through minimally invasive Gamma Knife surgery.

Symptom management

We may use medication or a shunt to relieve pressure or swelling in your brain. In some cases, your consultant may also recommend palliative care to support your comfort and well-being. If you experience seizures, a neurologist will work with your consultant to help prevent and manage them.

Ongoing Care

After treatment, you may need rehabilitation, such as to help you regain strength, coordination and communication skills. Regular follow-up appointments help us keep a close eye on you and check for any signs of recurrence.

Paying for Brain Tumour Treatment at Cleveland Clinic London

We offer two convenient ways to pay for your care at Cleveland Clinic. You may opt to use our self-pay services or to use private medical insurance. If you need guidance with the financial side of your care, we can connect you with a specialist who can help.

What’s Next?

A brain tumour diagnosis is understandably distressing. At Cleveland Clinic London, our experts work closely with a fully integrated team across medical, surgical and neurological specialties to provide accurate diagnoses and personalised care at every stage. We focus on delivering effective treatment and calm, compassionate support throughout your journey.