Also known as Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM)
ABOUT THE DISEASE
Glioblastoma is a type of brain cancer that arises from star-shaped cells in the brain called astrocytes. It commonly affects the cerebrum, the largest part of brain; but can occur anywhere in the brain and spinal cord. Men are more likely to get them than women. And chances go up with age.
Glioblastoma tumors are usually highly malignant, or cancerous. They can grow fast and spread quickly as they have a rich blood supply, which helps them grow. Treatment helps to reduce the signs and symptoms and slow down the progression of the disease.
SYMPTOMS
As brain tumors grow, they press against or damage nerves or other part of the brain and interfere with thought, memory, emotion, movement, vision, hearing, touch, and other brain functions. Swelling and fluid buildup can also affect brain function.
The most common symptoms of glioblastoma are :
- • Persistent headaches
- • Seizures
- • Vomiting
- • Trouble thinking
- • Changes in mood or personality
- • Double or blurred vision
- • Trouble speaking
CAUSES
Like most primary brain tumors, the exact cause of gliomas is not known.
DIAGNOSIS
- Clinical Evaluation from a Neurologist.
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
- Computed tomography (CT) scan
- Positron emission tomography (PET) scans
- Tumor biopsy
TREATMENT METHODS
Unfortunately, right now, there is no complete cure for glioblastoma.
Treatment aims to :
- • Relieve pain and symptoms
- • Improve quality of life
- • Prolong survival
Treatment depends on the patient`s medical and personal situations.
There are 4 treatments available often in combination :
- • Surgery is the first and preferred treatment where surgeon tries to remove as much of the tumor as possible. In high-risk areas of the brain, the surgeon may not be able to remove all of a tumor.
- • Radiation is used to kill as many leftover tumor cells as possible after surgery. It can also slow the growth of tumors that can`t be removed by surgery.
- • Chemotherapy may also be used.
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