Clinical features of central nervous system tumors

Central nervous system neoplasms are rare and account for less than 3% of tumors inthe adult population. The low incidence and broad spectrum of overlapping clinicalfeatures present a diagnostic challenge. Clinical manifestations of CNS tumors depend inpart on their location, size and growth rate. Common generalized signs include headache,memory loss, altered mental status, nausea, vomiting, and seizures, and reflect anincrease in intracranial pressure (ICP). On the other hand, focal signs and symptomsreflect compression of specific neural structures, resulting in cranial nerve palsy,weakness or sensory deficits. Tumors often express clinical features of both generalizedand focal localizing signs.A thorough history and complete neurologic exam can aid in diagnosing tumors ofthe central nervous system by narrowing the cohort that would benefit from furtherradiographic workup.