What Is a Frontal Lobe Brain Tumor?

A frontal lobe brain tumor is a mass that develops in the front part of the brain and may or may not be cancerous. Early symptoms of a tumor in the frontal lobe may be more obvious to those around the patient than to the person himself, often delaying an accurate diagnosis. These early symptoms often include mood swings or emotional outbursts, along with memory loss, urinary changes, or paralysis. Treatment for this type of tumor varies greatly and may involve the use of prescription medications, surgical intervention, or radiation treatment.

In the earliest stages, a frontal lobe brain tumor may be silent, meaning that it does not cause any noticeable symptoms and typically remains undetected. As the tumor begins to grow, symptoms may begin to appear. The types of symptoms experienced vary from person to person and depend on a variety of factors, including the size of the tumor as well as the precise location in the frontal lobe of the brain.

Emotional or behavioral changes are often among the first signs that a frontal lobe tumor may be present. The patient may not be aware of these changes, although others may start to notice periodic mood swings or emotional outbursts. Forgetfulness or short-term memory loss may sometimes develop as a result of the tumor. Intellectual issues may become noticeable, and thought processes may become slower than normal. Erratic behavior is quite common among those who have a tumor in this area.

Urinary changes may occur as the mass grows larger, and some patients may experience urinary urgency or incontinence. Coordination problems may develop, making it difficult for the patient to walk or perform normal activities. He may experience difficulties communicating his thoughts to to others. In some cases, the optic nerve may swell, leading to a variety of visual disturbances.

The frontal lobe of the brain controls much of the body's voluntary movements. A tumor in this area can lead to a partial or complete paralysis of one or both sides of the body. Seizures may develop and, in some cases, life-threatening medical complications may arise. As treatment options vary widely, any questions or concerns about a brain tumor or the best treatment options for an individual situation should be discussed with a doctor or other medical professional.