A tumor is an abnormal growth of tissue that can happen in any organ. There are more than 120 types of tumors that affect the brain and spinal cord. Tumors are either benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), depending on their behavior and speed of growth. They can originate in the brain itself (primary tumor), or come from another part of the body and travel to the brain (metastatic or secondary tumor). Malignant tumors contain cancer cells. Primary brain tumors rarely spread to other areas of the body, but may recur after treatment.

The expert physicians in the Inova Brain Tumor Program are affiliated with Inova Fairfax Hospital. Medical Director, Brain and Spine Tumor Program, Inova Neurosciences Watch Video Mateo Ziu, MD A member of Inova Medical Group Close description about Inova Medical Group members The doctors of Inova Medical Group are Inova’s premier primary care and specialty physicians, offering top-notch medical expertise, full access to Inova facilities, and the convenience of integrated electronic medical records.

Inova's Brain and Spine Tumor team provides comprehensive management and treatment of all forms of brain, pituitary and spine tumors. This unique, multidisciplinary program treats people with both primary and metastatic tumors. Our neurosurgeons, with advance/fellowship training in treatment of tumors of brain, pituitary gland and spine, are experts in treatment of the most difficult cases.  There are many different kinds of tumors that can affect the brain and nervous system.

Inova's Brain and Spine Tumor Program is designed with our patients in mind, offering a personalized, timely and streamlined healthcare experience. We provide coordinated care with specialists including neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, neurosurgeon oncologists, and medical oncologists who have expertise in treating benign and malignant, and primary and metastatic tumors to care for each patient from diagnosis through recovery.

If you are a new patient at Inova Schar Cancer Institute, you may be asked to complete the forms below and bring them with you to your appointment. Please arrive 15-20 minutes before your appointment to complete any additional forms your physician requires. Your insurance card and photo ID are needed at each visit, as well as a list of your medications (prescription and over-the-counter). Registration Form  New Patient Medical History Form  Record of Disclosure  Notice of Privacy Practices  Privacy Practices Receipt  Claims, Payment and Reviews Authorization 

What to Expect Breast cancer treatment varies depending on the stage and location of the cancer. Surgery is the primary treatment for localized breast cancer. This is often followed by radiation therapy to decrease the risk of cancer returning in the breast, chest wall and/or lymph nodes. Medical therapies, including chemotherapy, hormonal therapy and immunotherapy, are often recommended to improve the chance of cure or prevent a new breast cancer from developing.

We recommend getting routine breast screening exams such as mammograms, even if you and your loved ones are not showing any signs of disease. Many breast cancers are discovered through these screenings. Research shows that early detection improves the overall success of the treatment and outcome of the patient. According to the American Cancer Society, all women should begin having yearly mammograms by age 45. At age 55, women can have mammograms every other year. Women can choose to start screening with yearly mammograms as early as age 40.