ABOUT THE DISEASE

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) (also called glioblastoma) is a fast-growing glioma that develops from astrocytes — star-shaped glial cells that support nerve cells. GBM is classified as a grade IV astrocytoma. They may occur in the spinal cord or the brain, the latter being more common. These are the most invasive type of glial tumors, rapidly growing and commonly spreading to nearby brain tissue, supported by a large network of blood vessels. They may be composed of several different kinds of cells (i.e. astrocytes, oligodendrocytes). In adults, GBM occurs most often in the cerebral hemispheres, especially in the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain.

SYMPTOMS

GBM accounts for about 15 percent of all brain tumors and primarily occurs in adults between the ages of 45 and 70. Its symptom vary depending upon the location of the tumor, leading to:

• • Persistent headaches
• • Double or blurred vision
• • Vomiting
• • Loss of appetite
• • Problems in ability to think and learn
• • Difficulty in speech
• • Weakness in one side of the body

CAUSES

Like many tumor types, the exact cause of glioblastoma is not known.

DIAGNOSIS

- Brain CT Scan or MRI.
- PET scan
- If possible a tissue examination is also conducted to identify the exact type of tumor

TREATMENT METHODS

Treatment options include -
Surgery:- The primary objective of surgery is to remove as much of the tumor as possible without injuring brain tissue, through Craniotomy. Because of its infiltrative nature, complete resection may not be possible.
Radiosurgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation

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