Whether you are a patient seeking information about gliomas, a caregiver looking to support a loved one, or simply curious about brain tumor types, we are your trusted go-to resource. Let’s explore glioma brain tumors and what they are as we provide you with valuable insights to foster understanding, hope, and proactive engagement with this medical condition. To learn more about brain cancer, check out our blog “Everything You Need To Know About Brain Cancer.”
What is a Glioma Brain Tumor?
A glioma brain tumor is a type of tumor that originates in the brain or the spinal cord. It belongs to the group of tumors known as gliomas, which arise from glial cells—the supportive cells that surround and protect nerve cells in the central nervous system. Gliomas can be either benign brain tumors (non-cancerous) or malignant brain tumors (cancerous). Malignant gliomas are the most concerning as they tend to grow rapidly and invade nearby brain tissue.
What Causes Glioma Brain Tumors?
The exact cause of glioma brain tumors remains unknown. However, certain risk factors have been identified:
- Genetic Predisposition: Some rare genetic syndromes, such as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1), Li-Fraumeni syndrome, and Turcot Syndrome, increase the risk of developing gliomas.
- Exposure to Radiation: Previous radiation therapy to the head, especially during childhood, may increase the risk of glioma formation.
What Are High-Grade Gliomas?
A high-grade glioma refers to a group of aggressive and malignant brain tumors that include grade 3 and grade 4 gliomas. These types of glioma tumors are known for their rapid growth and invasive nature, making them particularly challenging to treat. The two main types of high-grade gliomas are anaplastic astrocytomas (grade 3) and glioblastomas (grade 4).
What Are Low-Grade Gliomas?
A low-grade glioma, in contrast to high-grade gliomas, refers to a group of slower-growing and less aggressive brain tumors. These tumors are classified as grade 1 and grade 2 gliomas and are generally associated with a better prognosis than their high-grade counterparts. To learn more about the different brain tumor grades and what they mean, head to our blog “ What Are The Different Brain Tumor Grades?”.
Glioma Brain Tumor Symptoms & Early Detection
The symptoms of a glioma brain tumor can vary depending on its size, location, and grade. Early detection of gliomas is crucial for improved outcomes, which is why it is essential to seek medical attention promptly if you are experiencing persistent or worsening neurological symptoms. Some common signs and symptoms include:
- Headaches: Persistent and worsening headaches, may indicate increased intracranial pressure.
- Seizures: Gliomas can irritate brain tissue, leading to seizures that may occur without a history of epilepsy.
- Cognitive Changes: Difficulty with concentration, memory loss, and changes in thinking patterns may occur.
- Motor Issues: Weakness, numbness, or difficulty with coordination can result from gliomas affecting the motor areas of the brain.
- Visual Disturbances: Blurred or double vision, visual field deficits, or other vision changes may occur with tumors affecting the optic pathways.
- Personality Changes: Gliomas in certain brain regions can lead to personality changes, mood swings, or emotional disturbances.
How To Treat a Glioma Brain Tumor?
The treatment of a glioma brain tumor is a complex and multifaceted process that requires a personalized approach based on the tumor's type, grade, size, location, and the patient's overall health. A multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including neurosurgeons, neuro-oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists, collaborates to develop an optimal treatment plan. The primary treatment modalities for glioma brain tumors include the following:
- Surgery: Surgical resection aims to remove as much of the glioma tumor as possible without causing significant damage to essential brain structures responsible for vital functions. The extent of surgical removal depends on the tumor's location and its proximity to critical areas of the brain. high-grade gliomas often infiltrate surrounding brain tissue, making complete resection challenging.
- Radiation Therapy: uses high-energy beams to target and damage cancer cells while sparing healthy tissue as much as possible. Radiation can be administered externally, with a machine directing the radiation at the tumor site, or internally, through the placement of radioactive materials directly within or near the tumor (brachytherapy).
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy involves the use of powerful drugs to target and kill rapidly dividing cancer cells. These drugs can be administered orally or intravenously, and they circulate throughout the body, reaching cancer cells both within the brain and other parts of the body.
- Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a treatment approach that focuses on specific molecules or genetic mutations that play a role in the growth and survival of cancer cells. Targeted therapies for gliomas aim to inhibit the signaling pathways that promote tumor growth and division.
Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center: Research & Treatment Options
The Preston Robert Tisch Brain Tumor Center, located in Durham, NC, is dedicated to providing world-class brain cancer treatment and advancing groundbreaking research to conquer the challenges posed by brain tumors. We stand at the forefront of innovation, leveraging cutting-edge technologies, multidisciplinary expertise, and compassionate care to transform the lives of patients facing brain tumors.
We offer comprehensive care from diagnosis to treatment and beyond, embracing a holistic approach to address the emotional and psychological needs of patients and their families. We believe in empowering our patients with knowledge and providing them with all the information needed to make informed decisions about their care. Take the first step towards a brighter future. Contact us today to learn more about our services, research initiatives, and how we can support you on your journey to healing and hope.
Gliomas: Commonly Asked Questions
Are all glioma brain tumors cancerous?
No, glioma brain tumors can be either benign or malignant. Benign gliomas are non-cancerous and tend to grow slowly, while malignant gliomas are cancerous and more aggressive.
Can glioma brain tumors be cured?
The prognosis for glioma brain tumors varies depending on the type of brain tumor, grade, and stage. While some low-grade gliomas can be successfully treated, higher-grade gliomas, like glioblastomas, are more challenging to cure.
Are gliomas hereditary?
Most gliomas appear to have no clear genetic cause and are not hereditary. Some rare genetic syndromes, such as neurofibromatosis type 1 (NF1) and Li-Fraumeni syndrome, have been associated with an increased risk of developing gliomas. However, the vast majority of gliomas occur sporadically, without any familial predisposition.
How do they remove a glioma?
The treatment approach for glioma removal depends on the tumor's size, location, and grade. Surgery is often the primary treatment for gliomas, especially for tumors that are accessible and not located in critical brain areas. Other treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy may also be used.
Does stress cause glioma?
The exact cause of gliomas remains uncertain, and stress has not been definitively proven as a direct cause. To learn more about stress and brain tumors, check out our blog “Can Stress Cause Brain Tumors?”.
How often are gliomas cancerous?
Most cases of glioma brain tumors tend to be malignant but this is not always the case.