General Information About Glial Tumors
Disease Details and Frequently Asked Questions
It is the general name for tumors formed by the abnormal growth and multiplication of glial cells, which form the framework of brain tissue and nourish and support neurons (nerve cells).
They are named according to the type of supporting tissue cell. Those arising from astrocytes are called Astrocytomas, those from oligodendrocytes are Oligodendrogliomas, and those from cells lining the cerebrospinal fluid pathways are called Ependymomas.
Gliomas are graded between Stage 1 and Stage 4 by the World Health Organization (WHO). Stages 1 and 2 are slow-growing, well-defined (close to benign) tumors; Stages 3 and 4 are aggressive cancers that rapidly take root in the brain tissue.
It varies depending on which area of the brain the tumor is pressing against. Waking up in the morning with vomiting, severe headaches, previously unexperienced epileptic seizures, vision loss, and weakness in the arms and legs.
Following a neurological evaluation, the location, size, and blood supply of the tumor are clearly seen with Contrast-Enhanced Brain Magnetic Resonance (MRI) imaging. A biopsy is performed for a definitive tumor staging.
The priority is to surgically remove the largest possible portion of the tumor via microsurgery (maximal safe resection) without damaging healthy brain tissue. Depending on the stage of the removed mass, Radiotherapy (radiation) and systemic chemotherapy are planned for the area after surgery.
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