Definition:
Oligodendroglioma pertains to a rare brain tumor that grows from the cells that encompass the supportive connective tissue around the nerve cells of the brain. Oligodendroglioma more commonly develops in adults than in children, and more commonly in men than in women.
Diagnosis:
The patient's medical history and a thorough physical examination are the first steps of oligodendroglioma diagnosis. For a more definite diagnosis, a CT (computerized tomography) scan or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) of the brain can help confirm the presence of the tumor inside the brain.
Treatment:
Treatment options for oligodendroglioma tumors include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiotherapy. In most cases, the first line of treatment is surgical removal of the oligodendroglioma, followed by extensive chemotherapy, and then, in some cases, with stereotactic radiosurgery.
Symptoms and Signs:
Specific symptoms of oligodendroglioma vary according to where the tumor is actually located in the brain. In general, patients with oligodendroglioma may experience: changes in sensation; changes in movement; headache; seizure; vomiting; and raised intracranial pressure.
Causes:
To date, there is no known cause for oligodendroglioma.
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