Astrocytoma (Brain Tumor Glioma)

Description

A type of brain tumor (glioma) that consists of an abnormal growth of astrocytes, a normal cell type within the brain. It can be benign or malignant. Even slower growing benign tumors can be life threatening by compressing the brain causing damage, and leading to increased pressure in the brain (raised intracranial pressure). Astrocytoma are graded I, II, III or IV. Grade IV is highly aggressive and malignant and termed a glioblastoma multiforme.

Symptoms

Headaches: typically these headaches are new and slowly progressive. Other symptoms include nausea and vomiting, a headache that increases with lying down, weakness, numbness, confusion, problems with vision, balance problems, change in behavior, seizures, dizziness, vertigo (spinning), coma, death.

Tests

A history and physical exam will be performed. The following tests may be performed to identify the tumor: CT scan of the head, MRI of the head, and/or CT-guided brain biopsy.

Treatment

Therapy depends on the size of the tumor, the location of the tumor, whether the cancer is benign or malignant, and the health of the patient. Treatment can include: surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy.

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