Could a Brain Tumor Cause Leg Numbness and Low Blood Pressure?

Does a brain tumor affect "numbness and tingling in the legs" and "low blood pressure"?

Hello Dr.
Chang, my father is 61 years old.
Last July, he began experiencing tingling and numbness in his feet and calves, like being pricked by needles.
An MRI determined that he had adhesions between the spinal nerves and fascia from a previous surgery, and he underwent surgery in February of this year.
Since the surgery, the pain and numbness in his feet have not improved; in fact, they have worsened.
Over the past few months, he has experienced muscle weakness and atrophy in his legs, along with purplish discoloration of the microvasculature, accompanied by low blood pressure (92 systolic / 58 diastolic / 92 pulse).
Yesterday, a brain MRI report revealed a tumor in the "frontal lobe subarachnoid space" measuring 3.2 cm in diameter, which is compressing the meninges and brain.
I would like to ask Dr.
Chang, is there a correlation between this condition and the tumor?

JHD, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/14

Dr. Zhang Junwei reply Neurosurgery

Without detailed physical examination and imaging reports, it is not possible to determine if there is a correlation.

Reply Date: 2021/08/14

More Info

The symptoms you describe regarding your father's condition, including leg numbness, muscle weakness, and low blood pressure, raise important questions about the potential relationship between these symptoms and the newly discovered brain tumor. While I cannot provide a definitive diagnosis without a thorough examination and review of all medical records, I can offer some insights based on medical knowledge.

Firstly, leg numbness and tingling sensations, often described as "pins and needles," can arise from various causes, including nerve compression, peripheral neuropathy, or spinal issues. Given that your father had a previous spinal surgery, it is possible that the numbness in his legs is related to residual effects from that surgery or other spinal nerve issues. However, the presence of a brain tumor adds another layer of complexity to the situation.

Brain tumors can indeed affect neurological function, depending on their size, location, and the structures they impact. A tumor located in the frontal lobe, as indicated in the MRI report, could potentially lead to various neurological symptoms. These may include changes in sensation, motor function, and even autonomic functions, which could explain the low blood pressure observed in your father. The autonomic nervous system regulates blood pressure, and if the tumor is affecting areas of the brain that control these functions, it could lead to hypotension (low blood pressure).

Moreover, the symptoms of muscle weakness and atrophy in the legs could be indicative of a more systemic issue, possibly related to the tumor's effect on the central nervous system. If the tumor is causing increased intracranial pressure or affecting the brain's ability to communicate with the spinal cord and peripheral nerves, it could lead to the symptoms your father is experiencing.

It is also worth noting that low blood pressure can result from various factors, including dehydration, medications, or underlying health conditions. In the context of a brain tumor, it could be a result of autonomic dysfunction or even a side effect of treatments or medications prescribed for managing the tumor or its symptoms.

In conclusion, while there may be a connection between the brain tumor and your father's symptoms of leg numbness and low blood pressure, it is essential for a healthcare professional to conduct a comprehensive evaluation. This should include a detailed neurological examination and possibly further imaging studies or tests to assess the tumor's impact on brain function and overall health. It is crucial to consult with a neurologist or neurosurgeon who can provide a more tailored assessment and recommend appropriate management strategies based on your father's specific condition. Early intervention and a multidisciplinary approach are key in managing complex cases like this, ensuring that all potential causes of symptoms are addressed effectively.

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