A neurologic cancer diagnosis can be challenging. Our multidisciplinary team with board-certified, fellowship-trained physicians work together through our tumor boards to create a personalized treatment plan for your cancer.
What is Neurologic Cancer?
Neurologic cancer occurs when cells grow in ways that aren’t typical in the brain, skull or spinal cord. When cancer is in these areas, it is sometimes called central nervous system (CNS) cancer.
Tumors that grow in the brain, skull or spinal cord can disrupt nerve signals between your brain and body. Brain cancer symptoms can include:
- Balance problems
- Behavior changes
- Headaches
- Nausea or vomiting
- Sleepiness
Neurologic Cancers We Treat
Sentara cancer specialists treat all neurologic cancer types, including:
Tumors that begin in the brain, skull base or spinal cord are primary neurologic cancer. Cancer that starts somewhere else in the body and spreads to the brain or spinal cord is secondary (metastatic) neurologic cancer.
Diagnosing Neurologic Cancers
The Sentara cancer team uses different tools to diagnose neurologic cancer. Our neuro-oncologists examine you and talk with you about your symptoms and health history.
Our specialists do specialized exams to learn more about neurological functions. These include:
- Neurologic exam
- Visual field exam
Doctors may collaborate with our neurosciences specialists to personalize your care. We may also do other tests to learn whether cancer is present and if it has spread.
These tests include:
- Biopsy
- Stereotactic biopsy
- Open biopsy
- Laboratory tests
- Imaging tests
Neurologic Cancer Treatment and Research
We use all the cancer treatments available to treat neurologic cancer.
Our experts work with you - and with each other - to create a treatment plan that's best for you.
Our experts and partners also research new ways to treat cancer. Please read about our work at Sentara Health Research Center.
Support During Neurologic Cancer Treatment
When you or a loved one is undergoing neurologic cancer treatment, our team is with you at every step. Learn more about our cancer support services. We also provide support groups, classes and wellness programs.
Contact Us
Find a cancer specialist or call 1-888-220-2214 to learn more.