Neurology Cancer Nurse Coordination Service
Support for people with Primary Malignant Brain Tumours
Primary malignant brain tumours (cancers) are rare, accounting for just two per cent of all new cancer cases diagnosed each year. Approximately 194 people are diagnosed with a primary brain cancer in Western Australia each year.
This service is available Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) 8.30am to 4.30pm and can be contacted on: 6457 0855 or mobile 0400 021 649.
Diagnosis
The most common malignant brain tumours include:
- Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM)
- Astrocytoma
- Oligodendroglioma
Diagnosing brain cancers can be complex and you may require several tests and scans to investigate symptoms and confirm a diagnosis.
Some of the more common tests include:
- CT scan (Computerised Tomography).
- MRI scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging).
- Taking a sample of tissue (biopsy) from the brain for examination under a microscope
- Lumbar Puncture to look for cancer cells in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), the liquid that surrounds the brain and spinal cord.
Treatment
Brain cancers are usually treated with surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. These treatments may be used alone or in combination.
The type of treatment will depend on the type, size, and location of the tumour. Your age and overall general health are also important factors when the doctor is planning your treatment.
Helping you along your cancer journey
The Neurology Cancer Nurse Coordination Service is a free statewide service available to any person with a diagnosis of a primary malignant tumour of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord).
Specialist Nurse Coordinators are available to:
- provide and explain information on your diagnosis and treatment
- refer you to other health care professionals including, social work, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and Psychology as required.
- assist you and your family through treatment and coordinate your care across all departments and hospital sites.
- act as a central point of contact.
Other useful contacts
Cancer Council WA Phone
Tel: 13 11 20
Provides counselling, complementary therapies, support groups and programs, advice, information and resources.
WA Psycho-Oncology Service
Tel: (08) 6457 1177
A clinical psychology service that offers a confidential, free counselling service to patients and families living with cancer.
SolarisCare
Tel: (08) 6383 3475
Provides counselling and complementary therapies for cancer patients and their families.
Useful websites
Cancer Council WA
Web: www.cancerwa.asn.au
Cancer Australia
Web: canceraustralia.gov.au
Brain Tumour Alliance Australia
Web: btaa.org.au
COGNO – cooperative trials group for neuro-oncology
Web: cogno.org.au
Peace of mind
Web: www.peaceofmindfoundation.org.au