Definition:
Glioblastoma multiforme is the highest grade brain tumor, and is also the most aggressive and most common type. It is also the most malignant form of gliomas characterized by star-shaped cells, called astrocystoma tumors.
Diagnosis:
Early phases of glioblastoma multiforme may be diagnosed as a benign brain lesion. But craniotomy and stereotactic biopsy can confirm suspicions of the condition and also aid in removing as much of the tumor as possible.
Treatment:
Treatment for Glioblastoma multiforme is very challenging and complicated; it poses serious risks for the patient and the tumors are very resistant. Treating the condition will require surgery as the first step towards a longer survival time, because the procedure will be able to decrease some symptoms and remove the tumor. 5-aminolevulinic acid, a fluorescent dye, highly increases the chance of an almost complete removal of the tumor if used during the initial surgery. Following surgery, radiotherapy is part of the treatment due to its effectiveness in decreasing the size of the tumor. Lastly, chemotherapy is the treatment of choice and is conducted during and after radiotherapy for its ability to further decrease the tumor size.
Symptoms and Signs:
The most established type of symptoms are neurological deficits, personality, and progressive memory. Common symptoms are similar to brain tumors, and these include vomiting, nausea, seizures, headaches, dizziness, eyesight problems hemiparesis, difficulty speaking or walking, abnormal pulse, and intense headaches.
Causes:
Glioblastoma multiforme is more prevalent in males, but the reason is still unknown. The condition is rather random in nature, and is not associated with any genetic predisposition.
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