This is a common type of cancer that develops in the supportive tissue of the brain known as glia which is important to keep the neurons from functioning properly. It is estimated that around 30% of all the brain tumors are gliomas. The various kinds of glioma are based on the location, the characteristics of the cells and their severity. The three types of glial cells that can develop into cancer include the astrocytes, oligodendrocytes and ependymal cells. When cancer develops with the mixture of the glioma cells, it is known as mixed gliomas. The gliomas can be life-threatening based on its severity and the location which can affect the function of the brain.
Causes
As with most types of cancer, the cause of gliomas is not identified. However, some of the risk factors that can develop this cancer include exposure to radiation, individuals in the age group of 60 and 80 years and the family history of glioma although it is rare to run in the families.
Symptoms
The symptoms of gliomas are based on the type of tumor, its location and whether it is pressing against the brain or the spinal cord. The signs of glioma can develop slowly and may not be noticeable in the initial stages. In some cases, it might be diagnosed when the individual visit the medical professional for another condition. The common symptoms include headaches, seizures, numbness, difficulty with speech, weakness of the limbs and changes in personality. Additional symptoms can include dizziness, vision loss, nausea and vomiting.
Diagnosis
If the brain tumor is suspected, the individual will be referred to a specialist such as a neurologist who can treat the brain disorders. The diagnosis is based on the evaluation of the affected individual’s medical history, the symptoms and their family history. A neurological examination can evaluate the individual’s vision, hearing, strength, coordination or the refluxes which can give an indication of the area of the brain affected. The eyes may also be examined for swelling caused as the result of pressure on the optic nerve. The MRI and CT scan can create detailed images of the brain and can diagnose the tumor of the brain. Additional tests may also be required to assess if cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Depending on the location of the tumor, the biopsy of the abnormal tissue will be collected to be observed under the microscope to determine whether it’s cancerous or non-cancerous.
Treatment
The treatment of glioma is based on the grade of cancer which is often referred to as low-grade and high-grade based on its aggressive nature. The treatment can include surgery that can remove the tumor completely based on its location, a radiation therapy for high-grade tumors and chemotherapy that uses medications to destroy the tumor cells. In addition to the surgical removal of the tumor itself, the affected individual may also require medication to reduce the symptoms.
References
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/neurology_neurosurgery/centers_clinics/brain_tumor/center/glioma/
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/glioma/diagnosis-treatment/treatment/txc-20129508
http://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/healthlibrary/conditions/nervous_system_disorders/gliomas_134,22/
