Definition:
Glioma is a classification of primary central nervous system tumors, caused by glial cells. Gliomas most commonly occur in the brain but can also occur in any other part of the central nervous system. Gliomas can also be classified as the following: oligodendroglioma, ependymoma, astrocystoma, and mixed gliomas.
Diagnosis:
A physical examination is the first step towards diagnosing a glioma. If the doctor suspects a brain tumor, the patient is referred to a neurologist who then conducts neurological exams to determine the health of the brain and spinal cord. Other tests used in diagnosing gliomas include chest x-ray, blood test, CT or CAT scan, EEG, tissue sampling from the tumor, and MRI.
Treatment:
The grade and location of the brain glioma determine the type of treatment. A combination of radiation, chemotherapy, and surgery is often used. Spinal cord tumors, on the other hand, are treatable through radiation and surgery. High-grade cases are treatable through a combination of chemotherapy and angiogenic blockers.
Symptoms and Signs:
The symptoms of a glioma depend on its location in the central nervous system. Optic nerve gliomas are characterized by visual loss. Brain gliomas, on the other hand, are presents headaches, seizures, dizziness, vomiting, and cranial nerve disorders. And symptoms of spinal cord gliomas include weakness, numbness, and pain in the extremities.
Causes:
The causes of glioma are unknown, but environmental factors may contribute to a person's risk levels. These include exposure to radiation, certain chemicals, and food.
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